DNA Manipulation Flashcards
What is gel electrophoresis used for?
Gel electrophoresis is used to separate nucleic acids or proteins based on their size and charge.
True or False: In gel electrophoresis, smaller DNA fragments move faster than larger ones.
True
What is the first step in gel electrophoresis?
Preparing the gel.
What is the purpose of the loading dye in gel electrophoresis?
To visualize the DNA samples during loading and to track their progress during electrophoresis.
What type of current is applied in gel electrophoresis?
An electric current.
What does PCR stand for?
Polymerase Chain Reaction.
What are the three main steps of PCR?
Denaturation, annealing, and elongation.
True or False: PCR can amplify a specific DNA sequence.
True
What enzyme is primarily used in PCR?
Taq polymerase.
What is the role of primers in PCR?
Primers are short sequences of nucleotides that provide a starting point for DNA synthesis.
Fill in the blank: CRISPR-Cas9 is a tool for _____ gene editing.
precise
What does CRISPR stand for?
Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats.
What is the function of Cas9 in CRISPR technology?
Cas9 is an enzyme that cuts DNA at a specific location.
True or False: CRISPR-Cas9 can be used to edit RNA.
False
What is DNA profiling?
DNA profiling is a technique used to identify individuals based on their unique DNA characteristics.
What are short tandem repeats (STRs) used for in DNA profiling?
STRs are used to compare specific loci on DNA from different individuals.
Fill in the blank: DNA profiling is often used in _____ investigations.
forensic
What is the significance of the 99.9% similarity in human DNA?
It indicates that the differences in DNA sequences are what make individuals unique.
What is the first step in DNA profiling?
Extraction of DNA from a sample.
True or False: Gel electrophoresis can be used in DNA profiling.
True
What is a common application of PCR in medicine?
Diagnosing genetic disorders.
What is a guide RNA in CRISPR-Cas9 technology?
A sequence that directs Cas9 to the specific DNA target site.
Fill in the blank: The primary purpose of PCR is to _____ DNA.
amplify
What type of gel is commonly used in agarose gel electrophoresis?
Agarose gel.
What is the purpose of a DNA ladder in gel electrophoresis?
To determine the size of DNA fragments by comparison.
True or False: The process of DNA profiling can include mitochondrial DNA analysis.
True
What is one ethical concern associated with CRISPR technology?
The potential for unintended genetic consequences or ‘designer babies.’
Fill in the blank: PCR requires _____ cycles of denaturation, annealing, and extension.
multiple
What is the role of the electrophoresis buffer?
To conduct electricity and maintain pH during electrophoresis.
What does the term ‘genetic marker’ refer to?
A specific DNA sequence with a known location on a chromosome used for identification.
True or False: CRISPR-Cas9 can be used for gene knockout.
True
What is the desired outcome of a successful DNA profiling?
To match DNA samples from a crime scene to a suspect.
What is the typical temperature for the denaturation step in PCR?
Approximately 95°C.
Fill in the blank: In gel electrophoresis, DNA fragments migrate towards the _____ electrode.
positive
What is a potential application of CRISPR technology in agriculture?
Creating crops that are resistant to pests or diseases.
What does the term ‘allele’ refer to?
Different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus.
True or False: PCR can only be used for DNA, not RNA.
False
