[16] Functional Genomics and Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) Flashcards
What is functional genomics?
The field of genetics that attempts to describe gene functions and interactions.
What are Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS)?
Research methods that identify genetic variants associated with diseases by examining the genome-wide set of genetic variants in different individuals.
Initials: GWAS
Genome-Wide Association Studies
How does functional genomics contribute to understanding of genetics?
It aids in understanding the functional roles of genes in complex biological systems.
How does GWAS contribute to understanding of diseases?
It identifies genetic variants that influence the risk of diseases in humans.
What are the main components of functional genomics?
- Transcriptomics
- Proteomics
- Metabolomics
- Interactomics
What are the steps in GWAS?
- Collection of DNA samples
- Genotyping
- Statistical analysis to identify significant associations
- Replication of findings in another sample set
Initials: DNA
Deoxyribonucleic Acid
What is transcriptomics?
The study of the complete set of RNA transcripts produced by the genome under specific circumstances or in a specific cell.
What is proteomics?
The study of the entire protein complement of a cell, tissue, or organism at a specific point in time.
What is metabolomics?
The study of the unique chemical fingerprints that specific cellular processes leave behind.
What is interactomics?
The study of interactions between molecules in a biological system.
What is genotyping in the context of GWAS?
The process of determining differences in the genetic make-up (genotype) of an individual by examining the individual’s DNA sequence.
How does statistical analysis help in GWAS?
It identifies genetic variants that are associated with a disease by comparing the DNA of participants with and without the disease.
Why is replication of findings important in GWAS?
It ensures that the findings are not due to random chance and confirms the association of identified genetic variants with the disease.
What are the applications of functional genomics?
- Understanding gene function
- Discovering drug targets
- Developing new therapies
- Providing insights into disease mechanisms
What are the applications of GWAS?
- Identifying genetic variants associated with diseases
- Understanding the genetic basis of complex diseases
- Informing drug discovery and development
What is the potential limitation of GWAS?
It may not detect rare genetic variants associated with diseases.
What are the potential limitations of functional genomics?
- Complexity of gene interactions
- Difficulty in determining the function of every gene in a genome
What is the purpose of functional genomics and GWAS in the study of diseases?
They provide insights into the genetic basis of diseases and can help in the development of targeted treatments and therapies.
