Genetic Engineering Techniques and Tools

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following genetic engineering techniques utilizes a repeating DNA sequence for defense?

  • Zinc Finger Nucleases (ZFN)
  • Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) (correct)
  • Transcription Activator-Like Effectors (TALENs)
  • Recombinant DNA Technology

What is the consequence of mixing the wrong enzymes during a genetic engineering procedure?

  • Desired DNA amplification
  • Correct gene selection
  • Successful DNA binding
  • Dead end or failure (correct)

What is the primary function of a molecular vector in recombinant DNA technology?

  • To carry DNA segments into a host cell (correct)
  • To cut DNA at specific sites
  • To separate DNA fragments
  • To amplify DNA segments

Which laboratory tool is used to amplify DNA during genetic engineering?

<p>Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Machine (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of restriction enzymes in the process of genetic engineering?

<p>Cutting DNA at specific sequences (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major limiting factor of DIY CRISPR kits, according to the content?

<p>They are not effective because genetic editing only applies during the embryonic stage (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the core steps in Recombinant DNA Technology?

<p>Amplifying DNA (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a Gel Electrophoresis (GE) Machine?

<p>To analyze and separate DNA fragments (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)?

<p>It presents with weakening of the pelvic girdle and back. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary underlying cause of hemophilia?

<p>A mutation in the locus of blood clotting factors. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a known possible cause of phocomelia?

<p>Use of the drug thalidomide during pregnancy (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom seen in patients affected by hemophilia?

<p>Prolonged bleeding following minor injuries. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of hemophilia inheritance, what is the probability of a son inheriting the condition if his mother is a carrier?

<p>50% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which healthcare professional is primarily focused on enhancing gross motor skills, such as walking and balance?

<p>Physical Therapist. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What chromosomal abnormality is associated with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome?

<p>Deletion on chromosome 5. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the central dogma of molecular biology, what is the correct sequence of information flow?

<p>DNA =&gt; RNA =&gt; Protein (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What process can lead to novel genetic combinations in offspring through sexual reproduction?

<p>Recombination. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following terms describes a change in allele frequencies in a population over time that is not driven by natural selection, resulting in the better genes being included in the species' genome?

<p>Genetic drift. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of gel electrophoresis in recombinant DNA technology?

<p>To separate DNA fragments based on their size. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) in agriculture?

<p>To produce insecticidal proteins that act as biopesticides. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of recombinant DNA technology, what is the purpose of the 'cut-paste' or fragmentation and digestion process?

<p>To isolate and purify the desired gene fragment from a DNA sample. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of the Human Genome Project?

<p>To create a map of all the genes in the human genome. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential application of the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) technique?

<p>To diagnose diseases and trace the effectiveness of medicines. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 'G0’ phase in the application of stem cells?

<p>It is the resting or quiescent phase where stem cells can be shaped. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying principle behind the creation of 'golden rice'?

<p>To enrich it with beta-carotene to combat vitamin A deficiency. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of studying the Vacanti mice (Euriculosaurus)?

<p>To develop methods for organ fabrication and cosmetic surgery. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the purpose of 'Project Colossal'?

<p>To examine the impact of climate change and possibly resurrect the wooly mammoth. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are anthocyanin-rich tomatoes considered beneficial in regions with limited sunlight?

<p>They contain vitamin D and antioxidants which help prevent SAD. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of dolly the sheep in the context of genetic engineering?

<p>It showed that cloning a mammal from an adult cell is possible. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of using biopesticides compared to chemically produced pesticides?

<p>They are generally safer for the environment and non-target organisms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the likely cause of Trisomy 21 or Down Syndrome?

<p>A chromosomal arrangement that places a third copy of 21st chromosome. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS)?

<p>Amniocentesis analyzes the amniotic fluid, while CVS involves analyzing placental tissue. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In recombinant DNA technology, what happens after the gene fragments have been cut and amplified?

<p>They are ligated into a plasmid vector for bacterial transfer. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

CRISPR-Cas9

A powerful tool for precise genetic editing, CRISPR-Cas9 acts like molecular scissors that cut through the genome at specific locations based on a guide RNA sequence. This precise targeting allows for targeted gene modification.

Gel Electrophoresis

A method used to separate and analyze DNA fragments based on their size. It employs an electric current to move DNA fragments through a gel matrix, with smaller fragments migrating faster than larger ones.

Restriction Enzyme

A specific type of enzyme that cleaves DNA at specific sites known as restriction sites. Restriction enzymes are essential tools in genetic engineering, enabling precise cutting of DNA for cloning and gene manipulation.

Plasmid

A small, circular piece of DNA that replicates independently within a host cell. Plasmids serve as vectors in genetic engineering, carrying foreign genes into cells and allowing for gene expression and modification.

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Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A technique that amplifies specific DNA sequences from a sample, allowing for the generation of millions of copies. It involves repeated cycles of denaturation, annealing, and extension, enabling efficient replication of target DNA.

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Gene Transfer

A technique used to transfer specific genes into a host cell, allowing for the expression and study of these genes within a new environment. Commonly employed in genetic engineering and biotechnology for various research and therapeutic purposes.

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DNA Cutting

A crucial step in genetic engineering that involves cutting DNA at specific sites, often employing restriction enzymes. Targeted cleavage allows for the insertion or deletion of genes, manipulating the genetic makeup of an organism.

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Genetic Engineering

A process involving the manipulation of an organism's GENETIC MATERIAL, leading to modifications in its DNA sequence. These changes can impact an organism's traits and characteristics, altering its phenotype.

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Purification

The process of removing unwanted cellular components from a sample, leaving only the desired biologicals, such as DNA or specific gene fragments.

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Cut-Paste or Fragmentation and Digestion

A technique used to insert a desired gene into a bacterial plasmid, creating recombinant DNA.

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Recombination

The process of combining the inserted gene with the bacterial plasmid's DNA strand, forming a new DNA molecule.

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Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

Organisms that have been genetically modified to introduce new traits or enhance existing ones.

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Golden Rice

A type of GMO rice fortified with beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, addressing vitamin A deficiency.

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BT Corn

A type of GMO corn engineered to produce insecticidal proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), making it resistant to insect pests.

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Anthocyanin Rich Tomatoes

A type of GMO tomato enriched with anthocyanin, a pigment that provides vitamin D and antioxidants, particularly beneficial in areas with limited sunlight.

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Bacillus Thuringiensis (BT)

A type of biopesticide derived from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), safe and effective against specific pests.

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CRISPR

A powerful molecular tool used to cut and splice specific genes in a genome, allowing for targeted genetic modification.

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Transgenic Animals

The process of using genetic engineering to introduce new genes or modify existing ones in animals to enhance desired traits or study specific biological processes.

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Green Fluorescent Protein Technique

A technique that uses green fluorescent protein (GFP) from jellyfish to visualize and track specific cells, proteins, or processes within living organisms.

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Human Genome Project

A large-scale project aimed at determining the complete sequence of human DNA, providing insights into genetic diseases and human evolution.

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Stem Cells

Cells with the potential to differentiate into various cell types, offering therapeutic possibilities for treating diseases and injuries.

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Hemophilia

Rare blood clotting disorder caused by a mutation in a gene responsible for blood clotting factors.

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Huntington's Disease

A genetic condition causing progressive brain degeneration, affecting cognitive abilities.

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A group of developmental disorders impacting social interaction, communication, and behavior.

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Fragile X Syndrome (FXS)

A genetic condition caused by a fragile X chromosome, primarily affecting males.

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Down Syndrome

A genetic disorder characterized by physical features like a flat face, slanted eyes, and broad hands.

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Phocomelia

A rare genetic condition that results in absent or partial limbs, with the feet attached directly to the trunk.

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Cornelia de Lange Syndrome

A genetic condition characterized by a deletion on chromosome #5, causing various physical and developmental challenges.

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Angelman Syndrome

A genetic disorder caused by a defect on chromosome #15, impacting development and causing a variety of symptoms.

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Genetic drift

An evolutionary process where changes in allele frequencies within a population occur due to chance events.

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Transcription

A crucial process of changing DNA into RNA.

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Study Notes

Genetic Engineering Techniques

  • Zinc Finger Nucleases (ZFNs): Zinc-content zinc finger arrays target specific DNA sequences by binding and splicing. Requires meticulous attention to detail; potential for unwanted mutations if not correctly applied. Multiple enzymes are needed. Mixing the wrong enzymes can lead to failure.
  • Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nucleases (TALENs): Generic and readily available approach. High failure rate can result in low success rates.
  • Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR): Powerful molecular scissors that cut through the genome. Based on bacteria's defense mechanism against viruses. CRISPR-Cas9 is a key enzyme.
  • Recombinant DNA Technology: Consists of 7 major steps with core steps of Cutting, Purifying, and Inserting genetic material.

Laboratory Tools for Genetic Engineering

  • Gel Electrophoresis (GE): Separates and analyzes DNA fragments by size.
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Amplifies specific DNA sequences.
  • Molecular Scissors (Restriction Enzymes): Proteins that cleave DNA at specific sites.
  • Molecular Vector (Plasmid): Small circular DNA that can carry and replicate a gene of interest inside a host cell.

Core Steps of Recombinant DNA Technology

  • Gene Selection: Identify the desired gene.
  • Gene Extraction and Isolation: Use molecular scissors to cut out the gene.
  • Purification: Remove extraneous cellular components.
  • PCR Amplification: Increase the quantity of the selected gene.
  • Fragmentation and Digestion: Combine the amplified gene fragment with a vector.
  • Recombination: Joining the gene with vector DNA to create a new DNA strand.
  • Growth and Development of bacteria: Bacterial reproduction for gene expression.

Applications of Recombinant DNA Technology

  • Biopharmaceuticals: Creation of therapeutic proteins.
  • Biochemistry: Understanding and manipulating biological processes.
  • Biofood: Improving crop yields and nutritional value.
  • Disease Resistance: Modification of organisms to resist diseases.
  • Gene Therapy: Treating genetic diseases.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

  • Golden Rice: Modified to produce vitamin A precursor, beta-carotene.
  • BT Corn: Modified to produce insecticidal proteins.
  • Anthocyanin-Rich Tomatoes: Modified to contain purple pigment for potential health benefits.
  • Biopesticides: Using organisms to combat pests, like Bacillus Thuringiensis (BT).

Transgenic Animals

  • Dolly the Sheep: First cloned mammal.
  • Genetically Modified Animals: Used for research, disease modeling, and therapeutic protein production.

Genetic Conditions

  • Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome): Extra copy of chromosome 21.
  • Hemophilia: Blood clotting disorder.
  • Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD): Muscle-weakening disorder.
  • Phocomelia: Limb deficiency.
  • Huntington’s Disease: Inherited neurodegenerative condition.
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Neurodevelopmental condition.
  • Fragile X Syndrome (FXS): Genetic condition affecting cognitive development.
  • Cornelia de Lange Syndrome: Genetic condition with distinctive physical features.
  • Angelman Syndrome: Genetic condition affecting communication and movement.
  • Prenatal Diagnosis includes techniques like Amniocentesis and Chorionic Villi Sampling (CVS): used for identifying genetic conditions in a developing fetus.

Unsung Heroes in Healthcare and Rehabilitation

  • Physical Therapists: Assist with gross motor skills, pain management, and recovery.
  • Occupational Therapists: Help with fine motor skills, ADLs, and behavioral modifications.
  • Speech and Language Pathologists (SLPs): Address speech disabilities.
  • Prosthetists and Orthotists: Fabricate supportive devices to improve physical function.

Evolutionary Biology

  • Abiogenesis vs. Biogenesis: Early theories on life origins.
  • Theory of Adaptation: Adaptation through natural selection and survival of the fittest.
  • Biological contributors in Evolution: Key figures in the development of evolutionary thought.
  • Central Dogma: DNA to RNA to Protein.
  • Mutation, Gene Flow, Genetic Drift, and Recombination: Mechanisms of evolution.
  • Founder and Bottleneck Effects: Types of genetic drift.

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