Gene:The basic unit of heredity; section of DNA that are in charge of different functions like making proteins.
Chromosomes: Strand of DNA encoded with genes. Humans usually have 23 pairs of these.
DNA: Short for deoxyribonucleic acid, are the molecules that contain the genetic code of organisms.
Immunity:The ability of the body to defend itself from "foreign bodies". There are two types; innate; which does not give long term immunity and adaptive; which gives long term immunity against specific pathogens.
Pathogens: A disease causing organism.
Phagocytes:White blood cells that protect the body by engulfing harmful substances, that find their way into the body.
Lymphocytes: Part of the innate human system and their job is to recognize antigens, produce antibodies and destroy cell that could cause damage.
Antigens: Molecules (usually proteins); which are expressed by a bacteria or virus that is recognize by the adaptive immune system.
Antibodies: Key element of the adaptive immune system. Large Y- shaped proteins that can stick to the surface of bacteria and other viruses.
Insulin: Natural hormone made by the pancreas that controls sugar levels int he blood.'
Beta cells: Insulin producing cells.
Hair follicles:Part of the skin that grows hair by packing old cells together.
Melanin: Pigment that gives human skin, hair and eyes their color and also protect against skin damage from the sun.
Melanocytes: Melanin producing cells
Gluten:Composite of the proteins gliadin and glutenin. Gluten can be found in wheat, rye and barley.
Small Intestine:Part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the small intestine.Absorbs nutrients and minerals from food.
Transgenic:Having genetic material (DNA) from another species. This can be done naturally or by using genetic engineering techniques.
