5 Questions
What is the primary function of the hydrogen bonds between nitrogenous bases in the DNA double helix model?
To hold the two complementary strands of nucleotides together.
What is the role of the start codon in protein synthesis?
To signal the beginning of protein synthesis.
What is the difference between autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive inheritance patterns?
Autosomal dominant requires one copy of the dominant allele to express the trait, while autosomal recessive requires two copies of the recessive allele.
What is the purpose of gene regulation in cells?
To control when and how genes are expressed.
What is the main application of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in genetic engineering?
Making precise changes to DNA sequence.
Study Notes
Genetics
DNA Structure
- Double helix model: two complementary strands of nucleotides twisted together
- Nucleotides composed of:
- Sugar molecule (deoxyribose)
- Phosphate group
- Nitrogenous base (A, C, G, or T)
- Hydrogen bonds between nitrogenous bases hold strands together
Genetic Code
- Sequence of nitrogenous bases determines genetic information
- Codons: sequences of three nucleotides that code for amino acids
- 64 possible codons, but only 20 amino acids used in proteins
- Start codon: AUG, signals beginning of protein synthesis
- Stop codons: UAA, UAG, and UGA, signal end of protein synthesis
Inheritance Patterns
- Mendelian inheritance: follows laws of segregation and independent assortment
- Autosomal dominant: one copy of dominant allele is enough to express trait
- Autosomal recessive: two copies of recessive allele needed to express trait
- X-linked inheritance: genes on X chromosome, affects males more than females
- Polygenic inheritance: multiple genes influence single trait
Gene Expression
- Transcription: DNA to RNA
- Translation: RNA to protein
- Gene regulation: controlling when and how genes are expressed
- Epigenetics: chemical modifications to DNA or histone proteins affect gene expression
Mutations and Genetic Variation
- Point mutations: change in single nucleotide
- Frameshift mutations: insertion or deletion of nucleotides, altering reading frame
- Chromosomal mutations: changes in number or structure of chromosomes
- Genetic variation: differences in DNA sequence between individuals or populations
- Mutations can result in genetic disorders or increased susceptibility to disease
Genetic Engineering
- Recombinant DNA technology: combining DNA from different sources
- Cloning: creating multiple copies of a gene or organism
- Gene editing: making precise changes to DNA sequence using CRISPR-Cas9
- Applications: medicine, agriculture, biotechnology
Test your knowledge of genetics basics, including DNA structure, genetic code, inheritance patterns, gene expression, mutations, and genetic engineering.
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