1.5 human genomics Flashcards
describe the term genome
The genome of an organism is its entire hereditary information encoded within its DNA
State the component parts of the human genome.
The human genome is made up of genes (DNA sequences that code for proteins) and other DNA sequences that do not code for proteins.
Describe what is meant by the term ‘genome sequencing’.
a process that results in the determination of the sequence of nucleotide bases for individual genes or entire genomes. Computer programs can be used speed up the process of identifying base sequences by looking for sequences similar to known genes
What is meant by the term ‘bioinformatics’?
Bioinformatics is the use of computer and statistical analyses to compare the sequence data of individuals / species.
Explain the potential health benefits of sequencing an individual’s genome.
An individual’s genome can be sequenced and analysed to predict the likelihood of developing certain diseases
What are the health beinfits of sequencing an individuals genome
This information can then be used to benefit the individual by informing them of preventative measures they could take in terms of life choices (diet and exercise) or medication to reduce the risk of disease development in some diseases.
State what is meant by the term ‘pharmacogenetics’
the study of genome sequence information (genetic differences in drug metabolic pathways) which can affect the variation in the response of individuals to particular drugs / medicines / pharmaceuticals.
What can pharmacogenetics be used for
This is used by the pharmacology companies in development of drug treatments.
State what is meant by the term ‘personalised medicine’.
Personalised medicine is the use of an individual’s personal genome sequence information to select the most effective drugs and dosage to treat their disease
Describe the potential benefits of personalised medicine.
Personalised medicine will increase the effectiveness of drug treatment selection and dosage by tailoring this to the individual’s genome sequence with a reduced risk of harmful side effects and an increased chance of survival.
