key term - Genes

Definition

Genes are segments of DNA that carry hereditary information and have specific functions in living organisms.

Related terms

Allele:

An allele is one variant form of a gene at a particular location on a chromosome.

Genotype:

The genotype refers to an organism's complete set of genes or genetic composition.

Phenotype:

Phenotype refers to an organism's observable characteristics or traits that result from its genotype interacting with its environment.