Family Pedigree

Thursday February 7, 2019

A pedigree analysis chart, usually used for families, allow us to visualize the inheritance of genotypes and phenotypes (traits). In this chart, the P, F1, and F2 generation are represented by the numerals I, II, and III respectively. Notice that those carrying the trait are colored red, and those not carrying the trait (the normal-looking ones) are in blue. The normal, non-trait carrying organisms on the chart are called the wild-type.


The term wild-type is used in genetics often to refer to organisms not carrying the trait being studied. For example, if we were studying a gene that turns house-flies orange, we would call the normal-looking ones the wild-type.


Let’s make a pedigree for your family. Here’s what you need:


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Extracting DNA in your Kitchen

Monday May 2, 2011

If the cell has a nucleus, the DNA is located in the nucleus.  If not, it is found in the cytoplasm.  DNA is the genetic material that has all the information about a cell.


DNA is a long molecule found in the formed by of two strands of genes. DNA carries two copies—two “alleles”—of each gene. Those alleles can either be similar to each other (homozygous), or dissimilar (heterozygous).


We’re going to learn how to extract DNA from any fruit or vegetable you have lying around the fridge. Are you ready?


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Tracking Traits

Monday May 2, 2011

Why do families share similar features like eye and hair color? Why aren’t they exact clones of each other? These questions and many more will be answered as well look into the fascinating world of genetics!


Genetics asks which features are passed on from generation to generation in living things. It also tries to explain how those features are passed on (or not passed on). Which features are stay and leave depend on the genes of the organism and the environment the organism lives in. Genes are the “inheritance factors “described in Mendel’s laws. The genes are passed on from generation to generation and instruct the cell how to make proteins. A genotype refers to the genetic make-up of a trait, while phenotype refers to the physical manifestation of the trait.


We’re going to create a family using genetics!


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Family Pedigree

Monday May 2, 2011

A pedigree analysis chart, usually used for families, allow us to visualize the inheritance of genotypes and phenotypes (traits). In this chart, the P, F1, and F2 generation are represented by the numerals I, II, and III respectively. Notice that those carrying the trait are colored red, and those not carrying the trait (the normal-looking ones) are in blue. The normal, non-trait carrying organisms on the chart are called the wild-type.


The term wild-type is used in genetics often to refer to organisms not carrying the trait being studied. For example, if we were studying a gene that turns house-flies orange, we would call the normal-looking ones the wild-type.


Let’s make a pedigree for your family. Here’s what you need:


Please login or register to read the rest of this content.