A
mRNA
messenger RNA carries the genetic instructions from DNA to the ribosome.
tRNA
transfers amino acids to the ribosome
rRNA
Makes up much of the ribosome and helps with protein synthesis
Start codon
a three nucleotide sequence that indicates the beginning of translation
stop codon
Transcription
copies genetic instructions from DNA to a new RNA molecule
Translation
converts information from the mRNA into protein.
replication
Creates an exact copy of a cells DNA before replication.
genotype
Blueprint that contains an organisms genetic makeup.
Phenotype
Visible physical traits of an organism
Genome vs Gene
Genome- the entirety of an organisms DNA
Gene- a segment of DNA
conjugation
Horizontal gene transfer method where genetic material is transferred directly between two living cells.
Codon
A sequence of 3 nucleotides on mRNA that specifies an amino acid, start or stop signal.
Transduction
Horizontal gene transfer where a bacterial DNA is moved from one bacterium to another by a bacteriophage
Transformation
Horizontal gene transfer method where a bacterium Takes up free DNA from it's environment.
Allele
A varying form of a gene that represents differing versions of a DNA sequence such as eye color.
vertical gene transfer
Asexual DNA is passed from parent to offspring.
Transposon
A piece of DNA that can move from one location to another.
They are sometimes known as "jumping genes"
general flow of genetic information
DNA -> RNA -> Protein
Chromosomes
Thread like structures made of protein and a single DNA molecule that carries genetic information.
replication fork
ligase
Links the gaps in the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA.
Polymerase III
The main replicative enzyme that copies the bulk of an organisms genome. Synthesizes new DNA strands during replication.
Polymerase I
Primary repair and maturation enzyme. Removes RNA primers and repairs DNA
Nitrogenous bases
Base pairs that make up the "rungs" of the DNA ladder