Glossary
1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)
The molecule that carries genetic instructions in living organisms. It determines traits such as hair color, eye color, and more.
2. Gene
A section of DNA that provides instructions for making a specific protein. Genes influence traits like height, metabolism, and risk for certain diseases.
3. Chromosome
Structures within cells that contain DNA. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, which carry genetic information from both parents.
4. Genetics
The study of how traits and health conditions are passed down through generations.
5. Ancestry
Your family history and the geographic regions your ancestors came from.
6. Heredity
The passing of traits from parents to children, including physical characteristics and health risks.
7. Mutation
A change in a DNA sequence. Mutations can sometimes lead to health conditions or influence traits.
8. Genotype
The specific genetic makeup of an individual. It can influence things like how you process nutrients or your likelihood of developing certain conditions.
9. Phenotype
The physical expression of your genetic makeup, including traits like eye color, blood type, or lactose intolerance.
10. Autosomal DNA
DNA inherited from both parents that can provide information about ancestry and health-related traits.
11. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)
DNA passed down from mothers to their children, useful for tracing maternal ancestry and understanding some inherited health risks.
12. Y-Chromosome DNA (Y-DNA)
DNA passed from father to son, used to trace paternal ancestry.
13. Haplogroup
A genetic population group that shares a common ancestor. Haplogroups can help trace ancient ancestry.
14. Admixture
The mixing of genetic material from different populations over time.
15. Ethnicity Estimate
An approximation of your genetic ties to different global populations, based on your DNA.
16. Gene Pool
The total genetic diversity found within a population.
17. Genetic Marker
A specific DNA sequence used to identify traits or health risks.
18. Trait
A specific characteristic, such as eye color or lactose tolerance, influenced by your genes.
19. Health Marker
A genetic indicator that provides information about your likelihood of developing certain health conditions.
20. Allele
A variation of a gene that can result in different traits or health outcomes.
21. Polymorphism
A common variation in DNA that can influence traits like hair type or risk for conditions like heart disease.
22. Carrier
A person who has one copy of a genetic mutation that could be passed to their children.
23. Heterozygous
Having two different alleles for a specific gene.
24. Homozygous
Having two identical alleles for a specific gene.
25. Genetic Testing
Analyzing your DNA to learn about your ancestry, traits, and potential health risks.
26. Family History
Information about health conditions that run in your family, which can be useful for understanding genetic risks.
27. Inheritance
The process by which genetic information is passed from parents to children.
28. SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism)
A small change in DNA that can influence traits and health risks.
29. Population Genetics
The study of genetic differences within and between groups of people.
30. Genetic Counselor
A healthcare professional who helps you understand your genetic test results and their implications for your health.
31. Biological Citizenship
The idea that people can have a genetic connection to a region or group based on their DNA.
32. Genome
Your complete set of genetic information, including all of your genes.
33. Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Advanced technology used to quickly read large amounts of DNA, useful for comprehensive genetic testing.
34. Lifestyle Genetics
The study of how your genetics influence your response to lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and sleep.
35. Nutrigenomics
The study of how your genes interact with your diet to influence your health.
36. Pharmacogenetics
The study of how your genes affect your response to medications.
37. Epigenetics
The study of how environmental factors, like diet or stress, can influence how your genes are expressed without changing your DNA sequence.
38. Health Risk Report
A genetic test result that shows your likelihood of developing certain health conditions based on your DNA.
39. Personalized Medicine
Medical care tailored to an individual based on their genetic makeup.
40. Genetic Predisposition
A higher likelihood of developing a particular condition due to your genetic makeup.