Key Vocabulary

Term

Definition

Genome

The complete set of genetic material (DNA) in an organism.

Gene

A DNA sequence that contains instructions to produce a functional product, usually a protein.

Noncoding RNA

RNA molecules that do not code for proteins but have regulatory functions.

Promoter

A DNA sequence where transcription of a gene is initiated.

Enhancer

A DNA region that increases the transcription of specific genes.

Chromatin

The complex of DNA and proteins that forms chromosomes in the nucleus.

Transcription

The process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA.

Epigenetics

The study of changes in gene expression that do not involve changes in the DNA sequence.

GWAS

Genome-Wide Association Study; identifies genetic variants linked to traits or diseases.