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G

Gamete

specialized germ cell. Either sperm or ovum. Contains the haploid (n) number of chromosomes.

Ganglion (pl.ganglia)

collection of nerve cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system

Gaseous exchange

the movement of gases between an organism and its environment; often takes place across a specialized surface, for example the alveoli of the lungs

Gastritis

Inflammation of the stomach

Gene

unit of inheritance. Short units of DNA which codes for a particular protein or polypeptide.

Genetic damage

harmful effects of X-rays which affect the genes of the reproductive cells

Genetics

the science of inheritance. Physical characteristics and abilities are largely determined by ‘genetic makeup’. In the 1860s, Mendel carried out studies which showed that each organism has physical traits which correspond to invisible elements within the cell.

Genotype

the genetic make-up of an animal

Geriatric

Elderly; the term is often used when an animal reaches or exceeds 75% of its expected lifespan

Gestation

the period of development of the young from fertilization to birth

Giantism

larger than normal size

Gingivitis

inflammation of the gingiva or gums

Glial cell

type of cell found in nervous tissue which provides metabolic and structural support for neurons

Glucosuria

the presence of glucose in the urine

Gluten

the protein found in wheat and other cereal grains

Glycogenolysis

breakdown of glycogen stored in the liver to release glucose

Glycolipids

fats that bind to one or more chains of sugars

Glycoproteins

proteins that bind to one or more chains of sugars

Golgi apparatus

a stack of membrane-bound, flattened sacs responsible for the modification and export of proteins from the cell

Gonad

male (testis) or female (ovary) organ responsible for producing the gametes

Gonadotrophin

any of the hormones that stimulate the gonads

Gram negative

classification of bacteria; Gram negative bacteria do not retain the crystal violet stain in a Gram stain

Gram positive

classification of bacteria; Gram positive bacteria retain the crystal violet stain in a Gram stain

Grid

a device for absorbing scattered radiation and decreasing fogging

Grid cut-off

underexposed areas at the edges of a radiograph due to absorption of more of the primary beam by the grid

Grid factor

the amount by which the mAs has to be increased when using a grid

Grid lines

fine lines which are apparent on a radiograph when a stationary grid is used

Grid ratio

an indicator of the grid's efficiency at absorbing scattered radiation, it is the height of the lead strips in relation to the distance between them

Guard hair

the longest, thickest hairs in an animal's coat, forming the topcoat. They protect the undercoat and are often waterproof.

Gustation

scientific name for the sensation of taste

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