6.3.10

Genetics

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Humanity's Understanding of Genetics

Before the mid-19th century, the consensus was that sexual reproduction produced offspring that exhibited (had) a blend of characteristics. This view has evolved (changed) over time:

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Mid-19th century

  • Gregor Mendel, an Austrian monk, performed breeding experiments on pea plants.
  • This work showed that characteristics were determined by inherited “units” passed from parents.
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Late 19th century

  • The first observation of how chromosomes behave during cell division.
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Early 20th century

  • The similarity between the behaviour of chromosomes and Mendel’s ‘units’ was recognised.
  • Consequently, it was decided that the ‘units’ were located on chromosomes.
  • Additionally, the ‘units’ were renamed genes.
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Mid-20th century

  • Technological advancements allowed scientists to work out the structure of DNA.
  • The mechanism by which genes operate was also unearthed at this time.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Biology

1.1What's in Cells?

1.2Cell Division

1.3Transport in Cells

2Organisation

2.1Principles of Organisation

2.2Enzymes

2.3Circulatory System

2.4Non-Communicable Diseases

2.5Plant Tissues, Organs & Systems

3Infection & Response

4Bioenergetics

5Homeostasis & Response

5.1Homeostasis

5.2The Human Nervous System

5.3Hormonal Coordination in Humans

5.4Plant Hormones

6Inheritance, Variation & Evolution

7Ecology

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