Alleles are crucial for genetic diversity, with different forms arising through mutation and influencing phenotypes. Mendelian genetics introduced the concept of dominant and recessive alleles, but the discovery of polyallelic genes and polygenic traits has expanded our understanding. This text delves into the complexity of genetic inheritance, including codominance, incomplete dominance, and epistasis, which contribute to the vast array of traits seen in populations.
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Alleles are different forms of a gene that arise through mutation and contribute to the genetic diversity of organisms
Dominant and Recessive Alleles
Dominant alleles are expressed in the phenotype even when only one copy is present, while recessive alleles are only expressed when two copies are present
Polyallelic Genes
Polyallelic genes have more than two alleles, contributing to the vast array of traits seen in populations
Codominance and Incomplete Dominance
Codominance occurs when two different alleles are both fully expressed, while incomplete dominance results in an intermediate phenotype
Mendelian Inheritance
Mendelian genetics describes how alleles can be dominant or recessive, with alleles separating during gamete formation
Non-Mendelian Inheritance
Non-Mendelian inheritance patterns, such as polygenic traits and epistasis, add complexity to genetic inheritance
Alleles contribute to the genetic diversity of organisms by creating variations in observable characteristics
Polygenic traits are influenced by multiple genes, resulting in a continuous range of variation
Sex-linked traits have unique inheritance patterns due to differences in sex chromosome composition
Recessive alleles can harbor mutations that may lead to genetic disorders, but typically only become apparent when an individual inherits two recessive alleles
Some genetic disorders are more common in certain populations due to founder effects or genetic bottlenecks
Recessive alleles can be carried in a population without affecting all individuals, allowing for the potential of healthy offspring
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Definition of alleles
Different forms of a gene at the same locus, arising through mutation.
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Phenotypes and alleles
Alleles create variations in phenotypes, the observable characteristics of organisms.
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Polyallelic genes
Genes with more than two alleles, contributing to a wide range of traits in populations.
