DNA applications in society

Question 1

Define genetic screening.

Answer 1

analysis of a DNA sample from a person
analysis to detect the presence of one or more alleles that are the cause of or are associated with particular human diseases.

Question 2

Briefly outline how the process of genetic transformation is an example of human intervention in the natural evolutionary process.

Answer 2

Normally, gene transfer is restricted to the transfer of genetic material from parents to offspring belonging to the same species. Transformation is a human intervention by which genes can be transferred between different species.

Question 3

Name one agent that could act as a vector in gene therapy.

Answer 3

• virus

- liposome

Question 4

Genetic screening

a) can be carried out only if a cure exists for the disease for which the person is being screened.
b) can be performed only on adult persons.
c) requires that persons being screened supply a DNA sample for analysis.
d) can cure certain inherited diseases.

Answer 4

c) requires that persons being screened supply a DNA sample for analysis.

Question 5

If a drug was to be designed that would be inserted into an individual’s red blood cell, what should the drug be enclosed by?

Answer 5

Phospholipid.
The structure which best represents a component of the cell membrane is the phospholipid, eg. liposome.
Protein, while a component of the cell membrane, does not form a suitable structure to enclose a drug.

Question 6

How would STR markers conclude whether an individual is closely related to another individual?

Answer 6

• minimal difference/mutation between the two

Question 7

State two purposes for which genetic screening might be carried out on a young adult.

Answer 7

• identifying carriers of a serious inherited recessive disorder
• identifying persons at risk of developing a serious inherited disease with a late age of onset or persons at risk of developing a cancer or other serious condition with a known familial tendency or genetic component.