[20] Cre-Lox Recombination Flashcards
Define “Cre-Lox Recombination”.
A system used for controlling gene expression, allowing specific genes to be turned on or off.
What is Cre in the context of Cre-Lox recombination?
An enzyme (Cre recombinase) that catalyzes recombination between two LoxP sites.
Define “LoxP”.
A specific DNA sequence that is recognized by the Cre recombinase.
What is the role of Cre recombinase in Cre-Lox recombination?
It facilitates the recombination of DNA between two LoxP sites.
Why is the Cre-Lox system significant in genetics?
- Allows for targeted gene editing
- Enables gene deletion or insertion
- Facilitates tissue-specific genetic manipulation
How is Cre-Lox recombination used in the creation of transgenic organisms?
It’s used to control where and when a specific gene is activated or deactivated.
How does Cre-Lox recombination contribute to the study of gene function?
By allowing researchers to control gene expression, they can better understand the role of specific genes.
How does Cre-Lox recombination help in disease research?
It allows for the creation of disease models by enabling the manipulation of gene expression in specific tissues or at specific developmental stages.
What is a “floxed” gene?
A gene that has been flanked by LoxP sites and is thus a target for Cre recombinase.
What happens to a “floxed” gene when Cre recombinase is present?
The gene can be removed or altered, depending on the setup of the Cre-Lox system.
What are the applications of Cre-Lox recombination?
- Studying gene function
- Generating animal disease models
- Controlling gene expression in a spatial or temporal manner
What are conditional knockouts and how are they related to the Cre-Lox system?
Conditional knockouts are organisms in which a specific gene can be inactivated at a specific time or in specific tissues using the Cre-Lox system.
Initials - DNA
Deoxyribonucleic Acid
What is the relevance of DNA in the context of Cre-Lox recombination?
DNA sequences (LoxP sites) are the target of the Cre recombinase, allowing for gene editing.
What is a Cre driver line?
A line of organisms engineered to express Cre recombinase in specific tissues or at specific times.
What is the function of a reporter gene in the context of the Cre-Lox system?
A reporter gene can be used to identify where and when the Cre recombinase is active.
How can Cre-Lox recombination be used to create gene knockouts?
By using Cre to excise a floxed gene, rendering it nonfunctional.
How can Cre-Lox recombination be controlled or regulated?
By placing the Cre gene under the control of a tissue-specific or inducible promoter.
What are the limitations or challenges associated with the use of the Cre-Lox system?
- Unwanted recombination events
- Incomplete recombination
- Possibility of Cre toxicity
What is Cre toxicity?
Potential detrimental effects caused by high levels of Cre recombinase activity.
