Mutations and Stem Cells

A forensic technique using DNA characteristics to identify individuals or determine genetic relationships.

A method to make many copies of a specific DNA segment.

A process involving heating, cooling, and enzyme action to amplify DNA.

Short, single-stranded DNA molecules used to detect specific DNA sequences.

A technique identifying differences in people's DNA using VNTRs.

Short repeating DNA sequences used in genetic fingerprinting.

A method separating DNA fragments based on size using electricity.

Gene cloning performed outside of living cells, often using PCR.

An enzyme found in some viruses and bacteria that converts RNA into DNA. It's crucial for creating DNA copies of genes expressed as mRNA.

Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences, often 6 base pairs long. They are essential for gene cloning as they create fragments with 'sticky ends' for joining.

Complementary single-stranded overhangs created by restriction endonucleases. These overhangs allow DNA fragments to join together.

DNA created by joining different DNA fragments, often from different sources. It's a key tool for gene cloning.

A method to increase bacterial cell permeability, allowing them to take up plasmids containing foreign DNA. It's important for introducing recombinant DNA.

Genes that are added to plasmids to distinguish bacteria containing the recombinant DNA. They help identify successful gene transfer.

Gene markers are incorporated into plasmids. Bacteria containing the plasmid will express the marker, allowing identification and separation from bacteria without the plasmid. They also help determine if the desired DNA has entered the plasmid, as the marker gene may become inactivated.

Increased oestrogen levels in postmenopausal women, particularly in breast adipose tissue, can contribute to breast cancer development. This is because oestrogen binds to transcription factors, activating genes that promote cell division, leading to tumor formation.

Sequencing the genome of organisms like humans has numerous applications. It allows for the identification of proteins, potential vaccine targets, and understanding evolutionary relationships. Furthermore, it facilitates personalized medicine based on individual genetic profiles.

The proteome is the complete set of proteins that a genome can code for. However, due to selective gene expression, not all proteins are present in every cell. Therefore, knowing the genome doesn't automatically reveal the complete proteome.

Despite its potential benefits, the Human Genome Project raises significant ethical concerns. These include potential discrimination based on genetic information, misuse of genetic data, and ownership rights over genetic information.

Recombinant DNA technology encompasses various methods for manipulating DNA, including cutting, joining, and replicating DNA sequences. This technology has revolutionary applications in medicine, biotechnology, and research.

The Human Genome Project aimed to determine the complete sequence of bases in a human genome. This has led to applications like screening for mutations, carrier identification, pre-implantation genetic screening, and early detection of diseases like Huntington's disease.

Gene sequencing allows for genome-wide comparisons between individuals and species. These comparisons help determine evolutionary relationships and identify genetic variations associated with diseases, leading to personalized medicine.

Gene sequencing has paved the way for synthetic biology, which involves designing and building new biological systems. This field holds promise for creating novel therapies, biofuels, and materials with unique properties.