Classification and Biodiversity Quiz

The manipulation of genes in living organisms. This involves inserting genes from one organism into another, potentially from different species. Genes can also be artificially synthesized and inserted.

DNA created by combining sequences from different organisms. This is achieved through genetic engineering techniques.

To introduce new traits, repair genetic defects, produce useful products, or study gene function.

A hormone produced by the pancreas. It helps regulate blood sugar levels.

The pancreas does not produce enough insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels.

An enzyme that can convert RNA into DNA. This is used in genetic engineering to create a DNA version of a specific gene from its mRNA.

Complementary DNA. It is a DNA copy of an mRNA molecule, created using reverse transcriptase.

Eukaryotic genes contain both coding (exons) and non-coding (introns) sequences. Prokaryotic genes do not have introns.

DNA copied from mRNA, containing only exons, no introns. Useful for expressing genes in bacteria.

Single-stranded DNA sequences on a DNA molecule, used for joining with other DNA molecules with complementary sequences.

An enzyme that cuts DNA at specific sequences, creating sticky ends.

Small, circular DNA molecule found in bacteria, used as a vector to carry foreign DNA.

Something that carries DNA from one organism to another, like a plasmid carrying a gene to bacteria.

A gene that allows a bacterium to survive in the presence of an antibiotic, used as a marker to select for bacteria containing the inserted gene.

Large container used to grow bacteria under controlled conditions, providing nutrients and oxygen for rapid growth.

Bacteria that have been altered to contain and express a foreign gene, like the human insulin gene. They are used to produce substances like insulin on a large scale.

A region of DNA that controls the expression of a gene. RNA polymerase binds to the promoter to initiate transcription.

Promoters control when and where a gene is expressed. They allow scientists to direct the production of specific proteins in a targeted way, like producing insulin only in bacteria or a specific protein only in a goat's milk.

Genes used to identify bacteria that have successfully taken up a specific gene. Their expression is easy to detect, making it simple to distinguish modified bacteria from unmodified ones.

Using antibiotic resistance genes as markers can increase the risk of creating antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment, leading to a potential health threat.

A gene editing technique that allows scientists to target specific DNA sequences and insert, delete, or replace them to correct harmful mutations.

In CRISPR-Cas9 technology, a molecule that guides the Cas9 enzyme to the specific DNA sequence to be edited.

An enzyme used in CRISPR-Cas9 technology, guided by a guide RNA, to cut the DNA at a specific location, enabling gene editing.

A gene-editing tool that allows scientists to precisely modify DNA sequences. It can be used to delete, insert, or replace specific DNA segments.

CRISPR-Cas9 can be used to delete sections of DNA, insert sections of DNA or swap a harmful, mutated allele for a 'correct' allele.

A laboratory technique used to amplify (make many copies of) a specific DNA sequence, creating millions of identical copies from a tiny sample.

PCR involves a repeating cycle of heating and cooling the DNA sample, allowing specific enzymes to work. This process is repeated many times, creating numerous identical copies of the DNA.

A short sequence of DNA that is complementary to the start of the DNA strand to be copied. It acts as a starting point for DNA polymerase to begin copying.

An enzyme used in PCR that can withstand high temperatures and effectively replicates DNA. It was isolated from a bacteria living in hot springs.

A technique used to separate fragments of DNA based on their size, by moving them through a gel with an electric current.

Enzymes that cut DNA molecules at specific base sequences, producing DNA fragments of different lengths.

The complete set of proteins produced by an organism at a specific time.

Large collections of DNA and protein sequences that are readily available to scientists.

Genetic databases are used to understand individual responses to drugs and develop better medications.

Genetic variation can influence an individual's risk of developing certain diseases.

Using amino acid sequences from genetic databases to create 3D models of proteins.

Comparing DNA sequences in a database can help scientists decipher the purpose of a newly discovered gene.

DNA sequences are compared in databases to determine evolutionary relationships between organisms.

Using genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to manufacture human proteins for medical purposes.

Analyzing a person's genes to identify genetic conditions they have or are at risk of developing.

Someone who possesses one copy of a harmful recessive allele but doesn't show the associated condition.

Testing the genes of an embryo created in vitro before implantation to ensure it doesn't have certain genetic diseases.

Checking the genes of a fetus inside the uterus to detect genetic disorders.

A genetic condition caused by a dominant allele, manifesting in middle age, affecting muscle coordination and cognitive function.

Genes linked to increased risk of breast cancer. Individuals with these alleles may choose preventative measures.

A professional who helps individuals understand the results of genetic screening and make informed decisions.

Moral dilemmas related to genetic testing, such as the right to life and the potential for discrimination based on genetic information.