Unit 6: Genetics, Biotechnology, and Bioethics

Heredity

• The process of learning new skills and behaviors.

• The passing on of physical or mental characteristics genetically from one generation to another.

• The study of how organisms interact with their environment.

• The ability to adapt to changes in the environment.

Chromosome

• A long DNA molecule with part or all of the genetic material of an organism.

• A type of protein that helps in cell division.

• A small structure within a cell that contains organelles.

• A segment of RNA that codes for a specific protein.

Nucleus

• A membrane-bound organelle that contains the cell's chromosomes.

• A structure that produces energy for the cell.

• A part of the cell responsible for protein synthesis.

• A component that helps in cell division.

Amino Acid

• Organic compounds that combine to form proteins and are used by the body to perform various functions.

• Simple sugars that provide energy to the body.

• Fatty acids that are essential for hormone production.

• Vitamins that help in the absorption of minerals.

Codon

• A sequence of three nucleotides which together form a unit of genetic code in a DNA or RNA molecule.

• A type of protein that helps in DNA replication.

• A single nucleotide that codes for an amino acid.

• A structure that carries genetic information in the form of genes.

Allele

• A type of chromosome that determines the sex of an organism.

• One of two or more alternative forms of a gene that arise by mutation and are found at the same place on a chromosome.

• A segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein.

• A genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome.

Ribosome

• A structure that stores genetic information in cells.

• A complex molecular machine found within all living cells that performs biological protein synthesis (translation).

• An organelle responsible for energy production in cells.

• A type of protein that helps in cell signaling.

Natural Selection

• The process whereby organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

• A theory that explains how species evolve through random mutations.

• The idea that all organisms are created equal and have the same chance of survival.

• A method of breeding plants and animals for desired traits.

Plasmid

• A type of protein found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.

• A genetic structure in a cell that can replicate independently of the chromosomes, typically a small circular DNA strand in the cytoplasm of a bacterium.

• A virus that infects bacterial cells.

• A component of the cell membrane that regulates transport.

Biotechnology

• The study of ancient biological organisms.

• The exploitation of biological processes for industrial and other purposes, especially the genetic manipulation of microorganisms.

• A method of creating synthetic materials for industrial use.

• The process of using living organisms to create new medicines.