For any locus, one of two (or more) slightly different forms of a gene. These differing forms mean that alleles code for different versions of the same trait.
The 22 non-sex chromosomes.
A DNA-containing body, located in the cells of most living things, that holds most of the organism's genes.
Deoxyribonucleic acid, a molecule in all cells, and many viruses, that contains genetic codes for inheritance.
In genetics, a term for a trait that can manifest in the offspring when inherited from only one parent. Its opposite is recessive.
A unit of information about a particular heritable trait. Usually stored on chromosomes, genes contain specifications for the structure of a particular polypeptide or protein.
The sum of all the genesshared by a population, such as that of aspecies.
A condition, such as a hereditary disease, that can be traced to an individual's genetic makeup.
The ability of a single allele to control phenotype.
The sum of all genetic input to a particular individual or group.
One of two basic types of cells in a multicellular organism. In contrast to somatic, or body, cells, germ cells are involved in reproduction.
The transmission of genetic characteristics from ancestor to descendant through the genes.
Having two different alleles—for example, Bb.
Having two identicalalleles, such as BB or bb.
The position of a particular gene on a specific chromosome.
Alteration in the physical structure of an organism's DNA, resulting in a genetic change that can be inherited.
The control center of a cell, where DNA is stored.
The actual observable properties of an organism, as opposed to its genotype.
In genetics, a term for a trait that can manifest in the offspring only if it is inherited from both parents. Its opposite is dominant.
Chromosomes that determine gender. Human females have two X chromosomes (XX), and males have an X and a Y (XY).
To manufacture chemically, as in the body.
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