D1.3 Mutations And Gene Editing Flashcards
What is a mutation?
A change in a genetic composition of a cell
What does ‘substitution’ do?
Base is replaced
What does ‘insertion’ do?
Inserts new bases
What does ‘deletion’ do?
Deletes parts of the base
What is a single-nucleotide polymorphism? (SNPs)
Occur when one nucleotide is replaced by another nucleotide in the DNA sequence
What is a frame shift mutation?
Results in alterations to the amino sequence and structure of protein
Give some examples of causes of gene mutation
- mustard gas
- EMS & MMS
- nitrous acid
- UV
- ionizing radiation
- gamma rays
What is a mutagen?
Chemical or physical agents which have the ability to alter the genetic sequence
Difference between germ and somatic cells
Germ- can cause diseases during a persons lifetime
Somatic- inherited mutations
What are the positive effects of a mutation?
- better chance of survival
- help species adapt to a new environment
What are some negative effects of a mutation?
- cancer
- mutation in gamete—> fetus dies
What are some neutral/ silent effects of a mutation?
- no effect
- passed through generations
What is genetic engineering?
The process of altering the DNA of an organism in order to introduce new characteristics, remove unwanted traits or modify existing ones
What is the gene knockout technique?
Specific gene is intentionally removed or changed in some way so the expression is permanently prevented
What is CRISPR?
Allows scientists to make targeted changes to DNA, blueprint of life, opening up a new world of possibilities for treating genetic diseases, creating disease resistant crops and engineering new organisms
