Genetics Fundamentals

Genetics

Definition and Importance

• Genetics is the study of heredity, genes, and genetic variation.
• It is essential for understanding the diversity of life on Earth and the development of new treatments for diseases.

Key Concepts

• DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid): a double-stranded molecule containing genetic information.
• Genes: units of heredity that carry information from one generation to the next.
• Genotype: an individual's genetic makeup.
• Phenotype: an individual's physical and behavioral characteristics.

Mendelian Genetics

• Gregor Mendel: father of modern genetics, discovered the fundamental laws of inheritance.
• Laws of Inheritance:
  1. Law of Segregation: each pair of alleles separates during gamete formation.
  2. Law of Independent Assortment: alleles for different genes are sorted independently.
  3. Law of Dominance: one allele can be dominant over another allele.

Molecular Genetics

• Central Dogma: DNA → RNA → Protein.
• Transcription: process of creating RNA from DNA.
• Translation: process of creating protein from RNA.

Genetic Variation

• Mutations: changes in the DNA sequence.
• Genetic drift: random change in the frequency of a gene or genetic trait in a population.
• Gene flow: movement of genes from one population to another.

Genetic Engineering

• Recombinant DNA technology: manipulation of DNA to create new genetic combinations.
• Genetic modification: alteration of an organism's genetic material.
• Genetically modified organisms (GMOs): organisms with altered genetic material.

Applications of Genetics

• Genetic testing: diagnosis of genetic disorders and susceptibility to disease.
• Genetic counseling: guidance on genetic disorders and reproductive options.
• Gene therapy: treatment of genetic disorders by introducing healthy copies of a gene.