6.3.2 Comparing Genomes

Question 1

What is a genome?

Answer 1

Contains all the genes within an organism

Question 2

What has gene sequencing allowed us to understand better?

Answer 2

• Determine protein sequences
• Develop synthetic biology
• Bioinformatics
• (uses Computational biology)
• Genotype phenotype relationships
• Epidemiology
• Evolutionary Relationships

Question 3

What is bioinformatics and how is it useful?

Answer 3

• Involves storage and analysis of biological data
• Generates data for DNA, RNA and protein sequences
• Information can be used to compare genotypes and phenotypes
• Uses high power computers to create databases
• Computers can make comparisons between genomes of organisms
• Can study evolutionary relationships, how related organisms are, can create model organisms (without genetic diseases)

Question 4

How can genetic variation and evolutionary relationships be investigated?

Answer 4

• Sequencing genomes
• Using computes to compare genomes (bioinformatics)
• Species with large numbers of differences are less related
• Species with fewer differences are likely to share a more recent common ancestor
• (cytochrome C in respiration)

Question 5

How can genotype-phenotype relationships be understood from genetic sequencing?

Answer 5

• Can ‘eliminate’ or ‘knock out’ genes
• Observe the change in phenotype
• Hence researchers can conclude the effect the gene has on the organism
• When an organisms genome is known, specific base sequences can be targeted and knocked out
• Eg. Removing genetic flaws which could lead to cancer

Question 6

How can genome sequencing contribute to the study of epidemiology?

Answer 6

• Epidemiology is the study of infection disease within populations
• Pathogen genome can be sequenced
• Highly infectious strains can be identified
• Most appropriate control measures implemented
• Antigens for vaccines can be identified

Question 7

What is a genome project?

Answer 7

• Collecting DNA samples
• Comparing them to create a reference genome
• More than 1 individual required to eliminate anomalous genomes / mutations in DNA sequence

Question 8

What is the human genome project?

Answer 8

• Public, so all scientists can use data rapidly to maximise human benefit
• DNA samples taken from multiple people around world
• To create perfect human reference genome
• To compare ‘perfect’ DNA to individuals
• Can observe an individuals likelihood of developing genetic / inherited diseases
  . Eg. cancers
• Early treatment provided