This branch of biology basically examines how traits are passed down from one generation to another. This is the study of heredity and particularly the mechanisms of hereditary, the genetic code of DNA.
This section of the website will grow to include not only the basics of genetics including the materials (nucleic acids) and processes (mitosis and meiosis), but will also explore genetic disorders and current events and issues related to the topic.
At the bottom of the page are links to genetics course worksheets and sample tests.
Quick Links to Articles on Genetics
Molecular Genetics
This
link takes you to a series of articles on the molecular genetics of
nucleotide monomers and the polymers of genetic information, nucleic
acids.
A mutation is an alteration in the nucleotide sequence of DNA that may ultimately result in changes
to the protein that the mutated gene codes for. This link takes you to the SPO page devoted to exploring genetic mistakes.
Paternity Testing and DNA Fingerprinting
DNA
paternity testing makes it possible to, with a very high degree of
certainty, determine the identity of a child's biological father. This
link takes you to an article series that explains this type of genetic
testing in clear, easy-to-understand terms.
Stems Cells: Embryonic, Cord Blood and Adult
What are stem cells? How are they collected, stored, grown and transplanted?
This link will take you to an article series that should answer some of your questions regarding embryonic and adult stem cells, umbilical cord blood banking and more.
Mendelian Genetics
Genetics of Simple Inheritance
Article series explaining the relationship between alleles, genes, DNA, and genotypes & phenotypes of complete dominance.
Mitosis & Meiosis
Cell Division: Mitosis & Meiosis
This link takes you to a series of articles about mitosis (somatic cell division) and meiosis, the generation of gametes.
These different types of cell division are part of the life cycle of all sexually reproducing organisms. There is also information regarding how some organisms can reproduce asexually, without a mate; cell division resulting in offspring that are clones.
Chromosomes & Chromosome Number
Chromosomes & Sister Chromatids
When is DNA considered a chromosome? What is a sister chromatid and how does it differ from a chromosome? The article unravels some of the lingo of DNA.
Sexual reproducers have 2 sets of homologous chromosomes. Cells must duplicate DNA prior to cell division. What is the distinction between duplicates and homologues?
We are diploid organisms with two sets of homologous chromosomes, but we also contain haploid sex cells with one set and half the number.
Worksheets & Sample Tests
Genetics & Probability Test Questions
 | |||
Genetics Sample Science Tests Organic Chemistry
Inorganic Chemistry Cell Biology Immunology
Sources
Image
Karyotype Sanger Institute
Stem Cells: Ryddragyn Wiki Public Domain
