Table of contents

1. Introduction to Genetics51m
2. Mendel's Laws of Inheritance3h 37m
3. Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance2h 41m
4. Genetic Mapping and Linkage2h 28m
5. Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses1h 21m
6. Chromosomal Variation1h 48m
7. DNA and Chromosome Structure56m
8. DNA Replication1h 10m
9. Mitosis and Meiosis1h 34m
10. Transcription1h 0m
11. Translation58m
12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes1h 19m
13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes44m
14. Genetic Control of Development44m
15. Genomes and Genomics1h 50m
16. Transposable Elements47m
17. Mutation, Repair, and Recombination1h 6m
18. Molecular Genetic Tools19m
- Genetic Cloning
  9m
- Methods for Analyzing DNA
  9m
19. Cancer Genetics29m
- Overview of Cancer
  21m
- Cancer Mutations
  7m
20. Quantitative Genetics1h 26m
21. Population Genetics50m
- Hardy Weinberg
  19m
- Allelic Frequency Changes
  31m
22. Evolutionary Genetics29m

1. Introduction to Genetics

Fundamentals of Genetics

Genetics

1. Introduction to Genetics

Fundamentals of Genetics

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0:43 minutes

Problem 10g

Textbook Question

Define each of the following terms:
Chromosome

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A chromosome is a thread-like structure composed of DNA and proteins, specifically histones, which help in packaging the DNA into a compact, organized form.

Chromosomes are located in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells and carry genetic information in the form of genes.

Each species has a specific number of chromosomes; for example, humans have 46 chromosomes arranged in 23 pairs.

Chromosomes play a critical role in cell division, ensuring that genetic material is accurately replicated and distributed to daughter cells.

In addition to nuclear chromosomes, some organisms, like bacteria, have circular chromosomes, and organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts also contain their own small circular chromosomes.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Chromosome Structure

A chromosome is a long, thread-like structure composed of DNA and proteins, which carries genetic information. In humans, chromosomes are organized into 23 pairs, with one set inherited from each parent. Each chromosome consists of a single DNA molecule that is tightly coiled and condensed, allowing it to fit within the nucleus of a cell.

Chromosomal Function

Chromosomes play a crucial role in the storage and transmission of genetic information during cell division. They ensure that DNA is accurately replicated and distributed to daughter cells during mitosis and meiosis. This process is vital for growth, development, and reproduction, as it maintains the integrity of the organism's genetic material.

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Chromosomal abnormalities occur when there is a change in the number or structure of chromosomes, which can lead to genetic disorders. Examples include Down syndrome, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, and Turner syndrome, resulting from the absence of one X chromosome in females. Understanding these abnormalities is essential for diagnosing and studying genetic conditions.

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