Genetics Overview
Genetics is the study of heredity and the variation of inherited
characteristics. It focuses on how traits are passed from
parents to offspring through genes. Here are some key
concepts:
1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid): DNA is the molecule that
carries genetic information in all living organisms. It is
structured as a double helix and consists of four bases:
A (Adenine), T (Thymine), C (Cytosine), G (Guanine).
The sequence of these bases forms the genetic code.
2. Genes: Genes are segments of DNA that contain the
instructions for building proteins, which perform various
functions in the body. Each gene has a specific location
on a chromosome. They determine physical traits (eye
color, height) and biological functions (immune
response, metabolism).
3. Chromosomes: DNA is packed into chromosomes,
which are found in the cell nucleus. Chromosomes are
long, thread-like structures made of DNA and proteins.
Humans have 46 chromosomes, arranged in 23 pairs.
4. Inheritance: Mendelian Genetics 🌱
oDiscovered by Gregor Mendel, who studied how
traits are inherited in pea plants.
