7- using gene sequence Flashcards
genome
The entire genetic material of an organism.
prokaryotes
This includes all their genes (they don’t have introns or exons).
eukaryotes
This includes all of their genes, including the base sequences of DNA that do not code for polypeptides (e.g. introns and enhancing regions).
PCR meaning
polymerase chain reaction
PCR
• Used to amplify specific DNA sequences from minute amounts of DNA.
1. Denaturation: The process begins with heating the DNA sample at 90°C to separate the two strands.
2. Annealing: The temperature is lowered to 50°C allow primers (short strands of
DNA) to bind to the target sequence on each DNA strand.
3. Extension: The temperature is raised again to 70°C, and a heat-stable DNA polymerase extends the primers, synthesising new strands of DNA.
4. Repetition of steps: These steps are repeated multiple times to exponentially amplity the target DNA.
PCR in gene sequencing
PCR amplifies specific genes of interest, which can then be sequenced to determine the order of nucleotides.
PCR in amino acid prediction
DNA sequence data can be translated into a corresponding amino acid sequence using the genetic code, predicting the protein that would be produced.
PCR use in genetic conditions
Variations or mutations in the
DNA sequence can indicate a potential for genetically determined conditions if they affect crucial parts of genes and hence alter the encoded protein’s function.
PCR in DNA profiling
Also known as DNA fingerprinting, it involves comparing DNA samples from a crime scene with those from potential suspects. PCR is used to amplify specific regions of the DNA that are highly variable among individuals.
PCR in identification in forensics
If the DNA profile from the crime scene matches the suspect’s DNA profile, it provides strong evidence of their presence at the crime scene.
PCR in paternity testing
PCR can amplify specific regions of DNA from the child and potential father.
A high degree of similarity provides evidence of paternity.
