Genetics

• What is a gene?


  A gene is a basic unit of heredity in living organisms.
• What does a gene contain instructions for?


  A gene contains instructions for making a specific protein or set of proteins.
• How are genes passed from one generation to the next?


  Genes are passed from parents to offspring.
• What traits can genes determine?


  Genes can determine traits such as eye color, height, and some behavioral characteristics.
• What are the key structural elements of a gene?

  • DNA sequence: Order of nucleotides (A, T, C, G)
  • Coding region: Contains instructions for making a protein
  • Regulatory regions: Control when and how much protein is produced
  • Introns and exons: Exons code for proteins; introns are non-coding sequences
• What is the coding region of a gene?


  The coding region is the part of the gene that contains the instructions for making a protein.
• What is the primary function of genes?


  The primary function of genes is to provide the instructions for protein synthesis.
• What are the key functions of genes?


  1. Encoding proteins: Provide templates for making specific proteins
  2. Regulating gene expression: Control when and how much protein is produced
  3. Passing on traits: Determine hereditary characteristics
  4. Facilitating growth and development: Guide organism growth and development
• What does a gene that controls the production of a pigment in a flower primarily do?


  It encodes a protein that determines a trait (flower color).
• Where are genes located in living organisms?


  Genes are located within the DNA of living organisms.
• What is the complete set of genes in an organism called?


  The complete set of genes in an organism is called its genome.
• What type of genes encode instructions for making specific proteins?


  Structural genes encode instructions for making specific proteins.