The structures that carry genetic information in the form of DNA.
What is DNA?
The molecule that contains the genetic instructions for the development and functioning of living organisms.
What is a gene?
A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for a specific trait.
What is a genotype?
An individual's collection of genes that determine their unique traits.
What is a phenotype?
The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism.
What is a dominant allele?
An allele that is always expressed in the phenotype when present in the genotype.
What is a recessive allele?
An allele that is only expressed in the phenotype when two copies are present in the genotype.
What is a mutation?
A permanent alteration in the DNA sequence of a gene.
What is genetic variation?
The differences in DNA sequences between individuals or populations.
What is a genetic disorder?
An illness caused by abnormalities in an individual's genes or chromosomes.
What is a pedigree?
A diagram that shows the occurrence and appearance of a particular genetic trait or condition within a family over multiple generations.
What is genetic counseling?
A process that helps individuals and families understand and adapt to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease.
What is gene therapy?
An experimental technique that uses genes to treat or prevent diseases by replacing or supplementing defective genes.
What is selective breeding?
The process of breeding plants or animals with specific traits to produce offspring with those traits.