Human Genetics Overview

Questions and Answers

22 pairs of autosomes and one pair of sex chromosomes (correct)

46 individual chromosomes without pairs

23 pairs of chromosomes, including 23 sex chromosomes

Only the sex chromosomes without autosomes

A segment of RNA responsible for protein synthesis

A segment of DNA that determines a specific trait (correct)

A sequence of nucleotides that does not code for proteins

A type of chromosome found only in eukaryotes

Protein synthesis errors

Environmental exposure only

Inherited gene mutations (correct)

Normal variations in genes

As a continuous strand of DNA wrapped around histone proteins Signup and view all the answers

They are identical copies created during DNA replication Signup and view all the answers

Nucleus Signup and view all the answers

Sugar-phosphate Signup and view all the answers

Replication Signup and view all the answers

Uracil Signup and view all the answers

Only from the mother Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Focuses on the human genome and the inheritance of genes across generations.
Comprised of 23 pairs of chromosomes: 22 pairs are autosomes and one pair are sex chromosomes.
Genetic disorders can arise from new mutations or inherited mutations in genes.

A gene is a specific segment of DNA that encodes the information responsible for determining traits in an organism.
Chromosomes consist of coiled DNA, with genes represented as particular sequences within the DNA structure.
Each chromosome is formed by a continuous strand of DNA wrapped around proteins called histones, aiding in chromosome stability and function.
A duplicated chromosome consists of two identical sister chromatids, which are crucial during cell division.

DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, serving as the hereditary material for humans and nearly all organisms.
Almost every cell in the body contains identical DNA, maintaining genetic consistency across various tissues.
Approximately 99% of DNA is found in the cell nucleus, termed nuclear DNA, while about 1% exists in the mitochondria, known as mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA).

Nucleotides, specifically deoxyribonucleotides, are the fundamental building blocks of DNA.
DNA consists of two deoxyribonucleotide chains connected by hydrogen bonds, forming a twisted double helix.
The backbone of DNA is composed of sugar and phosphate, with four variable nitrogenous bases (adenine, cytosine, guanine, thymine) attached.

DNA replication is crucial for cell division, facilitating growth, reproduction, and maintenance of the body.
Genes within DNA encode proteins that guide numerous cellular processes and functions.
DNA serves as the carrier of genetic information, with each individual inheriting half of their genes from each parent.
Mitochondrial DNA is inherited exclusively from the mother, underscoring its unique role in maternal lineage.

A DNA nucleotide comprises:
- A nitrogenous base (either adenine, cytosine, guanine, or thymine)
- A pentose sugar (deoxyribose)
- One or more phosphate groups, contributing to the structure and function of DNA.