Genetic Continuity and Molecular Biology

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Questions and Answers

Explain how the semi-conservative nature of DNA replication ensures genetic continuity.

Each new DNA molecule consists of one original strand and one newly synthesized strand, preserving the original genetic information.

Describe the role of tRNA in the process of translation.

tRNA molecules bind to specific mRNA codons and transport the corresponding amino acids to the ribosome for protein synthesis.

How does the law of independent assortment contribute to genetic diversity?

Genes for different traits are inherited independently, leading to various combinations of alleles in offspring.

Explain the significance of the promoter region in gene transcription.

The promoter region is a specific DNA sequence where RNA polymerase binds to initiate transcription. It controls when and where a gene is transcribed. Signup and view all the answers

How can mutations lead to both beneficial and harmful effects in organisms?

Mutations can introduce new genetic variations; some may enhance survival or reproductive success (beneficial), while others may impair function or cause disease (harmful). Signup and view all the answers

Describe how bioinformatics contributes to our understanding of genomics and proteomics.

Bioinformatics provides tools and databases to analyze large genomic and proteomic datasets, facilitating the identification of genes, proteins, and biological pathways. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how gel electrophoresis is used to separate DNA fragments.

Gel electrophoresis separates DNA fragments based on size and charge. Smaller fragments migrate faster through the gel matrix than larger ones. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the role of restriction enzymes in recombinant DNA technology.

Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing scientists to insert DNA fragments with complementary ends into plasmids or other vectors. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Hardy-Weinberg principle serve as a null hypothesis in population genetics?

It describes the conditions under which allele and genotype frequencies remain constant, providing a baseline to detect evolutionary changes in a population. Signup and view all the answers

What is the central dogma of molecular biology?

The central dogma describes the flow of genetic information starting from DNA replication, to transcription into RNA, and finally translation into protein. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Genetics

The study of heredity and variation in living organisms.

Mendelian Genetics

Describes the inheritance of traits through discrete units called genes using laws of segregation and independent assortment.

Molecular Genetics

Studies the structure and function of genes at the molecular level, including replication, transcription, and translation.