Gene Regulation and Cloning

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Questions and Answers

What allows body cells with the same DNA to perform different functions?

Gene regulation and differentiation (correct)

Cellular mutation

Random DNA rearrangement

Increased cell size

Which of the following processes is known for not regulating genes in eukaryotes?

Transcription

RNA splicing

Reverse transcription (correct)

Translation

Which component is NOT part of the lac operon structure?

Operator

Promoter

Genes with related functions

Enhancer (correct)

What is the main function of transcription factors in gene regulation?

To activate multiple genes by binding to enhancers and promoters Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of therapeutic cloning?

To generate embryonic stem cells for medical treatment Signup and view all the answers

Which type of stem cells can differentiate into any cell type?

Embryonic stem cells Signup and view all the answers

What type of gene is known to lead to cancer when mutated?

Oncogene Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells?

Embryonic stem cells are derived from embryos and are more controversial. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of bacterial plasmids in genetic engineering?

To act as vectors (gene carriers) Signup and view all the answers

Which technology is used for editing genes in living organisms?

CRISPR-Cas9 system Signup and view all the answers

How do restriction enzymes function in genetic engineering?

They cut DNA at specific nucleotide sequences Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of primers in the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)?

To bind to DNA fragments and amplify specific sequences Signup and view all the answers

What does the process of gel electrophoresis accomplish?

Separates DNA fragments based on their size and charge Signup and view all the answers

What are Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms (RFLPs)?

Differences in the size of DNA fragments produced by restriction enzymes Signup and view all the answers

Which factor represents a significant challenge when using genetic engineering in crops?

Public acceptance and regulatory issues Signup and view all the answers

What is the first transgenic dog created by inserting a gene from?

Sea anemone Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Lecture 11 - Gene Regulation and Cloning

Body Cells: All cells in an organism have the same DNA, but they express different genes to perform different functions.
Gene Regulation: Gene expression is controlled by various mechanisms including turning genes "on" or "off" through regulatory molecules.
Gene Regulation Mechanisms:
- Transcriptional factors: Bind to enhancers and promoters to activate gene expression.
- MicroRNAs: Deagrade or block translation of specific mRNA transcripts
- Homeotic genes: Master control genes regulating developmental pathways during embryogenesis.
Cloning: The process of creating genetically identical copies of cells, organisms, or DNA.
- Reproductive cloning: Replacing an egg's DNA with a nucleus from a somatic cell.
- Therapeutic cloning: Used for generating embryonic stem cells for medical treatment.
Oncogenes: Normal genes that when mutated can lead to cancerous growth.
- Carcinogens: Substances increasing cancer risk by causing mutations in DNA.
Stem Cells:
- Embryonic stem cells: Can differentiate into any type of cell, derived from embryos, and raise ethical concerns.
- Adult stem cells: Limited differentiation potential, derived from adults, and less controversial.

Lecture 12 - Recombinant DNA Technology and Genetic Engineering

Recombinant DNA technology: Combining genes from different sources.
- Genetically modified organisms:
  - Bt Corn: Modified to produce a toxin that kills pests.
  - Genetically modified foods: Widely used in the US since 1996.
- Restriction enzymes: Cut DNA at specific nucleotide sequences, producing "sticky ends".
- CRISPR-Cas9 system: Powerful gene editing technique.
DNA fingerprinting: Using differences in DNA fragment sizes to identify individuals.
- Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms (RFLPs): Variations in DNA fragment sizes produced by restriction enzymes.
- Gel electrophoresis: Separating DNA fragments by size and charge.
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Amplifies DNA sequences using primers.
- Short Tandem Repeat Analysis (STR): Analyzes 13 STR markers to identify individuals.
Applications of Recombinant DNA Technology:
- Developing vaccines: Inserting genes into viruses or bacteria for safer and more effective vaccines.
- Creating Genetically modified crops: Enhanced disease resistance, pest control, and nutrient content.
- Therapeutic applications: Gene therapy, developing synthetic hormones, and treating genetic diseases.
Challenges of Genetic Engineering:
- Ethical considerations: Public concerns about food safety, environmental risks, and genetic modification.
- Regulatory issues: Strict regulations for evaluating and approving genetically modified organisms.

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Description

Explore the fascinating world of gene regulation and cloning in this quiz based on Lecture 11. Learn how different mechanisms control gene expression, the role of transcriptional factors, and the processes involved in reproductive and therapeutic cloning. Test your understanding of these essential biological concepts.