1. Genetics The Blueprint Idea Genes provide the blueprint for life
Without the blueprint, no life is possible

2. What are genes and what is their function?
Genes are segments of DNA (contains all biologically inherited information)
Genes code for polypeptides (proteins)!
Genes do not code for behavior!
Chromosomes contain genes

3. Basics Conception: ovum and sperm fuse to create zygote
Ovum: 23 chromosomes (mom’s contribution)
Sperm: 23 chromosomes (dad’s contribution)

4. Zygote 46 chromosomes (23 pairs: 23 from mom and 23 from dad)
22 pairs are called autosomes
23rd pair contain the sex chromosomes

5. Determination of Sex

6. Determination of Sex

8. Karotype

9. Mitosis Cell division resulting in new diploid cells (46 chromosomes)
Chromosomes replicate, then split into two diploid cells

10. Mitosis Body Cell 46 Chromosomes Daughter Cell 46 Chromosomes

11. Meiosis Cell division resulting in haploid (23 chromosomes) cells
Creation of gametes (sex cells: ovum and sperm)

12. Meiosis Germ Cell 46 Chromosomes Gamete 23 Chromosomes Gamete 23

13. Expression of Genes Genotype: genetic makeup
Phenotype: physical appearance

14. Dominant vs. Recessive Genes
Dominant: a relatively powerful gene that is expressed phenotypically and masks the effect of a less powerful, recessive gene.
Recessive: a less powerful gene that is not expressed phenotypically when paired with a dominant gene.

15. Polygenic Inheritance
Affected by many genes rather than by a single pair.