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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2:03 minutes

Problem 6

Textbook Question

Contrast chromosomes and genes.

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Define chromosomes: Chromosomes are long, thread-like structures made of DNA and proteins (histones) that are found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. They carry genetic information in the form of genes.

Define genes: Genes are specific sequences of nucleotides within the DNA that encode instructions for the synthesis of proteins or functional RNA molecules. They are the functional units of heredity.

Explain the relationship: Genes are located on chromosomes. Each chromosome contains many genes, arranged linearly, and these genes are responsible for determining various traits and functions in an organism.

Highlight the structural difference: Chromosomes are large, organized structures that include DNA and associated proteins, while genes are smaller segments of DNA within the chromosome that have specific functions.

Provide an analogy: Think of a chromosome as a book (a large structure), and genes as the individual chapters or sections within the book, each containing specific information or instructions.

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Key Concepts

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

Chromosomes

Chromosomes are long, thread-like structures made of DNA and proteins that carry genetic information. In humans, there are 23 pairs of chromosomes, with one set inherited from each parent. They play a crucial role in cell division, ensuring that DNA is accurately replicated and distributed to daughter cells. Chromosomes are visible under a microscope during cell division, appearing as distinct entities.

Genes

Genes are specific sequences of DNA located on chromosomes that encode instructions for building proteins, which perform various functions in the body. Each gene can influence traits and characteristics, such as eye color or susceptibility to certain diseases. Genes are the fundamental units of heredity, passed from parents to offspring, and can vary in different alleles, contributing to genetic diversity.

Relationship between Chromosomes and Genes

The relationship between chromosomes and genes is foundational in genetics, as genes are segments of DNA found within chromosomes. Each chromosome contains many genes, and the organization of these genes on chromosomes determines how traits are inherited. Understanding this relationship is essential for studying genetic inheritance, mutations, and the overall functioning of an organism's genome.

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Define each of the following terms: