DNA sequencing begins with the process of mapping to identify the locus of a particular gene within the genome
The gene is fragmented with the use of restriction enzymes and the fragments produced are inserted into bacterial artificial chromosomes, resulting in the formation of a genomic DNA library
Fragments obtained from bacterial cultures are broken down into smaller fragments with restriction enzymes and sequenced using the chain-termination technique developed by Sanger
In DNA sequencing, the DNA sample is divided into four separate sequencing reactions containing all four standard nucleotides, DNA polymerase, primers, and modified fluorescently labelled nucleotides for ease of identification
High resolution electrophoresis is used to separate DNA fragments by size in DNA sequencing, allowing the base sequence to be read from the bottom of the gel upwards
Gene sequencing allows for genome-wide comparisons between individuals and species, aiding in determining evolutionary relationships and medical research
Gene sequencing has allowed for the prediction of amino acid sequences in polypeptides and the development of synthetic biology
DNA profiling is a forensic technique used to identify individuals by characteristics of their DNA and determine genetic relationships between organisms
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used in DNA profiling to amplify DNA by making millions of copies of a given DNA sample
Gel electrophoresis is used in DNA profiling to separate DNA fragments and proteins according to their size using an electric current
Genetic engineering is the process of deliberately manipulating genetic material to modify an organism's specific characteristics
In genetic engineering, genes can be obtained by extraction from the donor's DNA, synthesis from the donor organism's mRNA, or chemical synthesis from nucleotides
Isolated DNA fragments can be placed in plasmids by cutting them with restriction endonucleases, incubating them with plasmids, and sealing them with DNA ligase to create recombinant DNA
Electroporation is used in the formation of transgenic microorganisms to stimulate bacterial cells to take up plasmids by increasing the permeability of bacterial membranes
Recombinant DNA can be used to produce human proteins such as insulin, Factor VII for haemophilia treatment, and Adenosine deaminase (ADA) for treating severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)
Gene editing is the deletion, insertion, or replacement of DNA at specific sites of the genome of a living organism
Bioinformatics is the science of collecting and analyzing biological data using computer software, useful for building databases of gene sequences and complete genomes
Bioinformatics is the science of collecting and analyzing biological data using computer software
Bioinformatics can be used to build a database of gene sequences and complete genomes, determine relatedness of organisms, and identify human gene counterparts in other organisms
Studying the genome of parasites like Plasmodium can lead to the development of new means of controlling them
Genetic technology enables screening for genetic conditions like breast cancer caused by faulty alleles of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes
In genetic screening, preimplantation genetic diagnosis and prenatal testing methods like chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis are used
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the gene coding for the CTFR protein, leading to thick mucus affecting gas exchange, reproduction, and digestion
Respiratory system issues in cystic fibrosis include increased risk of lung infections and reduced surface area for gas exchange due to mucus build-up
Reproductive system problems in cystic fibrosis involve cervical mucus hindering sperm reaching the egg and blocked sperm ducts in men
Digestive system complications in cystic fibrosis include blocked pancreatic ducts, reduced nutrient absorption, and cyst formation in the pancreas leading to diabetes
Gene therapy involves inserting a normal allele into target cells to replace a faulty allele, treating diseases like cystic fibrosis and severe combined immunodeficiency
Gene therapy can be somatic (introduced to target cells only) or germ line (introduced to embryonic cells, passed down to offspring)
Ethical and social implications of gene therapy include concerns about violating human rights, unknown impacts on germ cells, and potential side effects
Various vectors like viruses and liposomes are used in gene therapy
Genetically modified organisms in agriculture can increase crop yield through herbicide and insect resistance, but may lead to herbicide-resistant weeds through pollen transfer
Insect-resistant crops like Bt maize produce their own insecticide, increasing yield by resisting pests like corn borers
Golden rice and Pantoea ananatis are examples of genetically engineered crops used to address food demand and nutrient deficiencies
Ethical and social implications of using GMOs in food production include concerns about toxicity, allergies, ecosystem damage, and lack of long-term research