BIOL 600 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Albinism, Dominance (Genetics), Ultraviolet
20 Jan 2017
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Albinism: defect in one of the enzymes required to produce melanin (darkens our skin, hair) which normally protects the dna of skin cells from ultraviolet radiation and helps with eyesight. Is an autosomal recessive trait, someone must receive a copy from each parent. Several different genes that control the synthesis and storage of melanin; many different types of mutations can occur at each gene, any one of which may lead to albinism. More frequent because albinism was seen in high regard. Albino male members were allowed to stay behind while other men went out in the sun (protected and more mating opportunities. ) Genome: a complete set of genetic instructions for any organisms. Three major sub disciplines of genetics: transmission genetics: basic principles of heredity and how traits are passed from one generation to the next. Focus is on the individual organism: molecular genetics: chemical nature of the gene itself: how genetic information is encoded, replicated, and expressed.
