Mutations and Stem Cells
24 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of DNA profiling?

  • To clone genes in vitro
  • To amplify DNA samples
  • To identify individuals based on their DNA characteristics (correct)
  • To separate DNA fragments by size
  • PCR is a technique that can amplify DNA samples by creating millions of copies.

    True (A)

    What is the name of the enzyme used in PCR to create new DNA strands?

    Taq polymerase

    DNA probes can be labeled with either radioactive isotopes or __________ dye.

    <p>fluorescent</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following terms with their correct description:

    <p>VNTRs = Short repeating sequences used in genetic fingerprinting Gel electrophoresis = A method to separate DNA fragments by size Gene cloning in vivo = Using recombinant plasmids in bacteria DNA probes = Single-stranded DNA molecules for detecting sequences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a disadvantage of in-vivo gene cloning?

    <p>It requires living cells and is time-consuming (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The probability of two individuals having identical VNTRs is high.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the main challenges associated with PCR?

    <p>Contamination</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of reverse transcriptase in molecular biology?

    <p>To synthesize DNA from RNA (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Only eukaryotic organisms utilize reverse transcriptase.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are sticky ends and why are they important in gene cloning?

    <p>Sticky ends are overhanging ends of DNA fragments that are complementary, allowing for easier joining of DNA fragments during cloning.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In gene cloning, DNA fragments are typically inserted into plasmids using __________.

    <p>restriction endonucleases</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method is used to increase the permeability of bacterial membranes to facilitate plasmid uptake?

    <p>Electroporation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following terms with their respective definitions:

    <p>Restriction endonucleases = Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences Plasmid = Vector used for DNA insertion DNA ligase = Enzyme that seals DNA fragments together Gene markers = Used to select transformed cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Antibiotic resistance genes are an example of gene markers used to identify bacteria that have taken up plasmids.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What occurs after a plasmid takes up an insert during the gene cloning process?

    <p>Base pairing takes place between the complementary ends and is sealed by DNA ligase.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential application of the Human Genome Project?

    <p>Screening for mutated sequences (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Human Genome Project does not raise any ethical concerns.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of comparing genomes between species?

    <p>To determine evolutionary relationships and assist medical research.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The ________ is all the proteins that the genome can code for.

    <p>proteome</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following applications with their corresponding technology:

    <p>Gene Sequencing = Comparing genomes for personalized medicine Recombinant DNA Technology = Manipulating DNA for various applications Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) = Amplifying specific DNA sequences Synthetic Biology = Creating new biological parts and systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes selective gene expression?

    <p>Different proteins are expressed in different cells. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Elevated oestrogen levels can be associated with breast cancer development.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some ethical concerns related to genetic screening?

    <p>Discrimination and misuse of genetic information.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    DNA Profiling

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

    PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

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

    PCR Steps

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

    DNA Probes

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

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Genetic Fingerprinting

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

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    VNTRs

    Short repeating DNA sequences used in genetic fingerprinting.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Gel Electrophoresis

    A method separating DNA fragments based on size using electricity.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    In-vitro gene cloning

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

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Reverse Transcriptase

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Restriction Endonucleases

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Sticky Ends

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

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Recombinant DNA

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

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Electroporation

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

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Gene Markers

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

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How do gene markers work?

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Oestrogen and Breast Cancer

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Genome Sequencing Applications

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Proteome vs. Genome

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Ethical Concerns of Genome Project

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Recombinant DNA Technology

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Human Genome Project Goals

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Gene Sequencing for Comparisons

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Synthetic Biology Applications

    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.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Study Notes

    Mutations

    • Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence.
    • Types include:
      • Insertion/deletion: One or more nucleotides are added or removed, shifting the reading frame.
      • Duplication: Repeated nucleotide sequences.
      • Inversion: A segment of DNA is reversed.
      • Translocation: A segment of DNA moves from one chromosome to another.
    • Causes:
      • Spontaneous errors during DNA replication.
      • Chemical mutagens (e.g., alcohol, benzene, tobacco smoke).
      • Ionizing radiation (e.g., alpha, beta, UV, X-rays).

    Mutation Effects

    • Neutral mutations: Have no effect on the organism (e.g., in non-coding regions or silent mutations).
    • Beneficial mutations: Can be advantageous (e.g., trichromatic vision in humans).
    • Harmful mutations: Can lead to diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis).

    Stem Cells

    • Undifferentiated cells that can divide and differentiate into various specialized cell types.
    • Types:
      • Totipotent: Can develop into any cell type in the organism and extra-embryonic tissues (e.g., placenta). Found in early embryo stages.
      • Pluripotent: Can form any cell type in the body but not extra-embryonic tissues. Found in early embryo stages. Used in tissue repair.
      • Multipotent: Can differentiate into a limited range of cell types (e.g., bone marrow cells).
      • Unipotent: Can only differentiate into one cell type.

    Transcription Regulation (by Oestrogen)

    • Oestrogen, a lipid-soluble hormone, diffuses into cells.
    • Binds to a receptor on a transcription factor.
    • This alters the factor's shape, enabling it to bind to DNA.
    • Binding stimulates transcription of target genes.

    Small Interfering RNA (siRNA)

    • Short RNA molecules that can silence gene expression.
    • Bind to complementary mRNA sequences.
    • Trigger mRNA breakdown or prevent translation.

    Epigenetic Changes

    • Heritable changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.
    • Examples:
      • DNA methylation: Addition of methyl groups to DNA, often suppressing gene expression.
      • Histone acetylation: Altered packaging of DNA around histone proteins, affecting gene expression.

    Gene Expression and Cancer

    • Proto-oncogenes: Stimulate cell division. When mutated, become oncogenes (uncontrolled cell division).
    • Tumor suppressor genes: Control cell division and apoptosis (programmed cell death). When mutated, cell cycle becomes uncontrolled.
    • Abnormal methylation of genes can affect their function.
    • Increased oestrogen levels can correlate with breast cancer due to increased cell division.

    Genome Projects

    • Sequencing projects determine the complete set of DNA in an organism.
    • Applications:
      • Vaccine development.
      • Understanding evolutionary relationships.
      • Personalized medicine.
      • Identifying genetic disorders.

    Recombinant DNA Technology

    • Techniques for manipulating DNA.
    • Techniques include:
      • Using reverse transcriptase to make DNA from RNA.
      • Restriction endonucleases to cut DNA.
      • Creating recombinant DNA molecules through complementary ends.
      • Introducing DNA into cells (In-vivo/In-vitro).
      • Using gene markers to confirm uptake by bacteria.
      • PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): amplifies specific DNA sequences.

    DNA Probes

    • Short, single-stranded DNA molecules used to detect specific DNA sequences.
    • Radioactive or fluorescent labelling in probe.
    • Detects mutations or genetic disorders.

    Genetic Fingerprinting

    • Technique used for DNA identification.
    • Based on variations in DNA sequences (e.g., VNTRs).
    • Applications:
      • Forensic science.
      • Medical diagnosis.
      • Animal/plant breeding.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Mutations and Stem Cells PDF

    Description

    This quiz explores the concepts of mutations, their types, causes, and effects on organisms. Additionally, it covers the characteristics and types of stem cells. Test your understanding of these crucial biological concepts!

    More Like This

    Exploring Gene Mutations
    10 questions
    Genetics Chapter: Understanding Mutations
    45 questions
    Biology Background in Mutations
    40 questions
    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser