Genes: Our Biological Blueprint
Genes
basic units of heredity that maintain their structural identity from one generation to another. the biochemical units of heredity that make up the chromosomes a segment of DNA capable of synthesizing a protein
Genes are aligned along chromosomes (strands of genes) and come in pairs.
Chromosomes
threadlike structures made of DNA molecules that contain the genes DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) a complex molecule containing the genetic information that makes up the chromosomes has two strands-forming a “double helix”- held together by bonds between pairs of nucleotides
A gene is a portion of a chromosome and is composed of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).
DNA serves as a model for the synthesis of ribonucleic acid (RNA).
Genome the complete instructions for making an organism consisting of all the genetic material in its chromosomes autosomes: The 22 paired non-sex chromosomes.
The Genetics of Behavior
RNA is a single strand chemical that can serve as a template/ model for the synthesis of proteins.
Proteins determine the development of the body by: forming part of the structure of the body. serving as enzymes, biological catalysts that regulate chemical reactions in the body.
Homozygous for a gene means that a person has an identical pair of genes on the two chromosomes.
Heterozygous for a gene means that a person has an unmatched pair of genes on the two chromosomes
Genes are either dominant, recessive, or intermediate.
Examples: eye color, ability to taste PTC
A dominant gene shows a strong effect in either the homozygous or heterozygous condition.
A recessive gene shows its effect only in the homozygous condition.
Types of genes include:
Autosomal genes - all other genes except for sex- linked genes.
Sex-linked genes - genes located on the sex chromosomes.
In mammals,