8.3 - Using genome projects

Question 1

Determining the genome of the viruses could allow scientists to develop a vaccine. Explain how. (2)

Answer 1

• (The scientists) could identify proteins (that derive from the genetic code)
  / (The scientists) could identify the proteome
• (They) could (then) identify potential antigens (to use in the vaccine)

Question 2

What is meant by a genome? (1)

Answer 2

• (All) the DNA in a cell/organism

Question 3

Suggest two benefits of developing a complete map of the human genome. (2)

Answer 3

• A better understanding of the interaction between genetics and disease / an understanding of which genes are responsible for certain diseases
• Early diagnosis/treatment of diseases
• Production of more effective medicines / a step towards development of personalised medicines
• Tracing ancestral/evolutionary links/relationships

Question 4

Describe and explain the difference between the genome and proteome of a cell. (3)

Answer 4

• The genome is the full set of genes within a cell
• The proteome is the full range of proteins synthesised/produced by a cell
• The proteome is larger than the genome