Genes carry the instructions for the body to develop and function. They do this by coding for proteins
Two groups:
- Functional proteins enable the body to function, e.g. enzymes, antibodies and hormones
- Structural proteins give the body structure, rigidity and strength, e.g. collagen and keratin
DNA
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Each gene is a section of a molecule called DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)
DNA is made up of 4 bases, as well as phosphate groups and sugar molecules
The order of bases determine the order of amino acids in a protein
Chromosomes
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Chromosomes are lengths of DNA found in the nuclei of cells.
Genome
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A complete set of genes is reffered to as a genome
Twins
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Identical twins have identical genotypes because they develop after a fertilized egg splits into two.
Genotype
and
phenotype
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Phenotype are the observable physical features of a person, whereas genotype will be defined by the genetic makeup (written as two letters e.g. DD)
Genes and Variation
Chromosomes and Genes
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Chromosomes are arranged in pairs. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes.
Sex cells only have 23 chromosomes.
At fertilisation, the egg and sperm join to create a zygote, with 46 chromosomes (23 from each parent).
Alleles
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Alleles are the different forms in which the genes controlling a characteristic occur, e.g. one for freckles and one without.
If two alleles of the same gene are identical the person is said to be homozygous, rather than heterozygous.
Genetic Crosses
Genetic Traits
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Traits are passed on from parents to their offspring through genes on chromosomes.
In most cases, alleles for a trait can be dominant or recessive.
Genetic Diagrams
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You can use punnet squares to show genetic crosses and find the probability of offspring having traits.
Sex Determination
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One pair of chromosomes determine out sex - the 23rd pair. A female has XX and a male has XY.
Eggs and sperm has 23 chromosomes (not pairs).