Published by Australian Academy of Science
Glossary | Integrated pest management – the good, the bad and the genetically modified

gene. The basic unit of inheritance. A gene is a segment of DNA that specifies the structure of a protein or an RNA molecule.

genetic engineering. A set of procedures whereby a specific piece of DNA can be excised from a chromosome and inserted into the DNA of a chromosome of a different organism.

pathogen. An organism capable of causing a disease.

protein. A large molecule composed of a linear sequence of amino acids. This linear sequence is a protein's primary structure. Short sequences within the protein molecule can interact to form regular folds (eg, alpha helix and beta pleated sheet) called the secondary structure. Further folding from interaction between sites in the secondary structure forms the tertiary structure of the protein.

Proteins are essential to the structure and function of cells. They account for more than 50 per cent of the dry weight of most cells, and are involved in most cell processes. Examples of proteins include enzymes, collagen in tendons and ligaments and some hormones. More information can be found at Protein structure and diversity (Molecular Biology Notebook, Rothamsted Research, UK).

resistance (biological). The ability to withstand the effects of a disease-causing organism.