Hi there, I'm taking a developmental psychology course but I'm having an issue with an important concept. I think I understand many of the concepts on their own, but I am having trouble putting them together.
I understand that chromosomes contain DNA.
I understand that in terms of gene selection, each parent contributes one gene to their offspring's genetic makeup and, when developing, that offspring will develop characteristics based on which trait was dominant and which trait was recessive.
I understand that the process of transcription takes a section of DNA (some of the genes) and makes it into RNA, which is then moved into the cytoplasm and translated to become a protein or proteins.
I understand that each person has 46 chromosomes (23 from mom, 23 from dad) and that within an individual each chromosome is paired with its match, making a total of 23 pairs.
If I'm understanding correctly, when these pairs are put together chromosomes 1-22 form an "x" shape as a result.
However, I am having difficulty understanding how it is that some traits (like blue eyes) are transcribed and translated, and others are not. If a father passes on a trait for blue eyes in his DNA and this is found on one of the offspring's chromosomes, and the mother passes on a trait for brown eyes in her DNA and this is found on the chromosome she passed on to the child which is paired with the father, how does the body determine which characteristic will be transcribed? What I mean is, how does it pick which chromosome to copy? Does it just ignore the other one? This part of the process is very confusing to me, and I would really appreciate some assistance!
