DNA Structure and Replication
What are the four bases of DNA?
Adenine, Thymine, Cytosine, Guanine
What does mRNA stand for?
Messenger RNA
What is the main goal of hybridization?
To cross dissimilar individuals to bring together the best traits of both organisms.
What defines a polyploid cell?
A cell that has double or triple the normal number of chromosomes
What sugar is found in DNA?
Deoxyribose
What base in RNA replaces thymine?
Uracil
What is a potential risk of long-term inbreeding?
It increases the chance that a cross between two individuals will bring together two recessive alleles for a genetic defect.
How do breeders typically induce polyploidy?
By using drugs that prevent chromosomes from separating during meiosis
Which two bases pair together?
Adenine–Thymine and Cytosine–Guanine
What is a codon?
Three bases that code for one amino acid
How do breeders create genetic variation that does not exist in nature?
By inducing mutations through the use of radiation or chemicals
How does the reaction to polyploidy differ between plants and animals?
It is usually fatal in animals but can produce larger, stronger individuals in plants
What enzyme breaks the hydrogen bonds during replication?
Helicase
What are the two stages of protein synthesis?
Transcription and Translation
Why is the process of inducing mutations considered "trial and error"?
Because mutations are random and cannot be totally controlled by the breeder
What is one physical advantage often seen in polyploid plants?
They are often much larger and stronger than their diploid relatives
What is the final result of DNA replication?
Two identical DNA molecules
What type of bond holds amino acids together during translation?
Peptide bond
What is the ultimate source of all biological diversity?
Mutations
Can polyploidy lead to the formation of a new species?
Yes, it can instantly produce new plant species.