What Mendel wrought
Article Abstract:
Gregor Johann Mendel's research on inheritance using pea plants proved that particular traits are inherited from parents. These traits were shown to be governed by a pair of alleles, one inherited from the father, the other, from the mother. Mendel also proved the segregation of alleles, the combination of which has equal probabilities. Independent inheritance of different traits and inheritance of multi-allelic traits giving rise to variations were also proven by Mendel's experiments.
Publication Name: Mosaic (Washington)
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0027-1284
Year: 1991
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Fragile x syndrome
Article Abstract:
The gap or break in the X chromosome is called the fragile X syndrome. This gap at location xq27 causes inherited mental retardation in about 4% of all cases. Scientists have discovered the fragile X mental retardation gene, expressed in the brain, the code for which is practically in the same region as the fragile X location. The current explanation is that imprinting may cause inactivation of this gene leading to mental retardation.
Publication Name: Mosaic (Washington)
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0027-1284
Year: 1991
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Mechanisms Mendel never knew
Article Abstract:
Imprinting is a state of temporary gene inactivation in which a trait is not expressed. DNA methylation is believed to be the regulatory process involved in gene inactivation. Cells recognize the parental origin of a gene through imprinting which is dependent on the sex of the parental donor of the trait. It is a form of nontraditional inheritance not explained by Mendelian genetics.
Publication Name: Mosaic (Washington)
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0027-1284
Year: 1991
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Entente cordiale. A light little number. Sheer poetry
- Abstracts: Pay dirt. Breaking the skin barrier. Decoding a nation's genes
- Abstracts: Research support for Head Start. Facing the big chill in science
- Abstracts: When science is sealed by the courts. Sustaining the Amazon. The big nada: inaction may stifle the UNCED agreements
- Abstracts: Virtual Superman. Waste vs. waste. New for Minitel: reach out and control something