Genetics and Early Prenatal Development

Slide 1 of 10: Synopsis

Human Development Video Activity
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You must read each slide, and complete any questions on the slide, in sequence.
amino acids
Organic compounds that combine to make up proteins. Proteins are critical to human function and are involved in digestion, growth, repair of the body, and other bodily operations. Some amino acids are acquired through diet, and others are manufactured by the body.
chromosome
A structure that contains protein and a single DNA molecule. Every human cell nucleus, except for reproductive gamete cell nuclei, contains 46 chromosomes, 23 of which came from the mother and 23 of which came from the father.
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
A large, complex molecule found in the cell nucleus that acts as a blueprint for an organism. It contains the genetic information that determines the characteristics of an organism and dictates how an organism develops, survives, and reproduces.
DNA
A large, complex molecule found in the cell nucleus that acts as a blueprint for an organism. It contains the genetic information that determines the characteristics of an organism and dictates how an organism develops, survives, and reproduces.
gene
A short segment of a DNA molecule. Genes are the detailed components that make up the DNA blueprint for an organism.
ovum
The female reproductive cell, or female gamete.
protein synthesis
The process in which individual amino acids are connected to each other in a specific order so as to create a new protein.
sperm
The male reproductive cell, or gamete.
zygote
A fertilized egg cell that is formed when the female gamete (ovum) and a male gamete (sperm) unite.
A color image showing the double-helix of DNA

Author

S. Stavros Valenti, Hofstra University

Synopsis

With the help of an animation, this activity explores the genetic aspects of prenatal development from the creation of the zygote through implantation.

References

Edelman, G. M. (1992). Bright air, brilliant fire: On the Matter of the Mind. New York: Basic Books.