Introduction to Genetics Quiz

A genetic condition caused by a defect in the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color.

The pigment that gives color to our skin, hair, and eyes.

A type of gene inheritance where two copies of a mutated gene are needed for the condition to express itself.

The process of producing a biological molecule from simpler components.

The storage of a substance within a cell or organism.

A specific form of albinism characterized by a defect in the OCA2 gene on chromosome 15.

The protective layer of skin that prevents harmful UV radiation from damaging DNA.

Melanin's involvement in the development of the eye and visual function.

The study of genes and heredity, how traits are passed down from parents to offspring.

The direct alteration of genes to treat diseases. For example, replacing a defective gene with a healthy one.

The process of copying genetic information (DNA) to create new copies.

The basis for many biological disciplines, like how organisms change over time (evolution) and how organisms develop (developmental biology).

All living organisms share fundamental genetic systems, suggesting a common ancestor. DNA is the 'language' of life.

The study of how organisms evolve over time, driven by changes in genetic information.

The study of how organisms develop from a single cell into a multicellular organism, guided by gene expression.

The ability of genes from one organism to function in another organism, enabling genetic engineering.

A model organism where the genetic makeup of an organism (like the zebrafish) can be studied to understand genetic processes in other organisms.

A type of genetic mutation resulting in a change in the amount of melanin produced, leading to variations in pigmentation.

The functional units of heredity that determine the characteristics of an organism.

The study of the transmission of genes from one generation to the next.

The study of the molecular mechanisms of inheritance at the level of DNA and RNA.

The study of genetic variation within and among populations.

The three major divisions of genetics, each focusing on different aspects of inheritance.

A unit of information that encodes a genetic characteristic, often associated with a specific trait.

Genes come in multiple forms called alleles. These forms can lead to differences in observable traits.

The characteristics that are visible or measurable in an organism.

The genetic makeup of an individual, represented by the specific alleles they possess.

The inheritance of traits is influenced by both genes and environmental factors.

DNA is the molecule that carries genetic information, while RNA is involved in protein synthesis, the process of creating proteins.

The study of genes, inheritance, and variations between individuals.

Bioinformatics combines biology and computer science to analyze large datasets of genetic information.

The complete set of genetic instructions for an organism.

An organism that is well-suited for genetic study.

The idea that traits acquired during an organism's lifetime can be passed on to offspring.

The theory that all living things are composed of cells, which are the basic unit of life.

The theory that hereditary information is carried by the germ cells (sperm and egg) and not by the somatic cells of the body.

The process by which genetic material (DNA) is copied to create new copies, ensuring the accurate transmission of genetic information.

The theory that genetic information is passed down through specialized reproductive cells, contradicting the idea of acquired traits being inherited.

The study of the transmission of genes from one generation to the next, focusing on patterns of inheritance and how traits are passed down.