Human genome

Human genome

The human genome consists of 23 chromosome and the small mitochondrial DNA. 22 of the 23 chromosomes are autosomal chromosome pairs and the last one being a gender-determining pair. In total, the human genome contains the sequences of the 3 billion chemical base pairs that make up human DNA and approximately 20,000-25,000 genes. By understanding human genome, scientists are able to develop new medical applications that can significantly advance the state of health care.

Industry: Biology; Medical

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Human genome

helicase

Medical; Human genome

Any of various enzymes that catalyze the unwinding and separation of double-stranded DNA or RNA during its replication.

gonadotropins

Medical; Human genome

Hormones that stimulate gonadal functions such as gametogenesis and sex steroid hormone production in the ovary and the testis. Major gonadotropins are glycoproteins produced primarily by the ...

gingiva

Medical; Human genome

1) Oral tissue surrounding and attached to teeth. 2) The mucous membrane-covered tissue of the jaws that surrounds the bases of the teeth. 3) Of or relating to the gums.

genetic recombination

Medical; Human genome

1) The natural process of breaking and rejoining DNA strands to produce new combinations of genes and, thus, generate genetic variation. Gene crossover during meiosis. 2) The exchange of a segment ...

glial cell

Medical; Human genome

1) The non-neuronal cells of the nervous system. They not only provide physical support, but also respond to injury, regulate the ionic and chemical composition of the extracellular milieu, ...

genetic drift

Medical; Human genome

1) Genetic drift is a mechanism of evolution. It refers to random fluctuations in the frequencies of alleles from generation to generation due to chance events. Genetic drift can cause traits to be ...

fecal occult blood test (FOBT)

Medical; Human genome

A test to check for blood in the stool. Small samples of stool are placed on special cards and sent to a doctor or laboratory for testing. Blood in the stool may be a sign of colorectal cancer.