Genetic Technology: Gel Electropheresis & Polymerase Chain Reaction

Question 1

DNA Fingerprinting

Answer 1

the use of technology to identify an unknown source of DNA

Question 2

What are the basics of DNA fingerprinting?

Answer 2

1. Isolate the DNA
2. Make copies (if needed) - via PCR
3. Cut DNA up using restrictive enzymes
4. Compare the fragments form step #3 to known samples - via Gel Electropheresis

Question 3

What are the first three steps in PCR?

Answer 3

1. Heat DNA sample to unwind it
2. Design and add primers to base pair with DNA strand
3. Add DNA polymerase and nucleotides

Question 4

After step three when the DNA polymerase and DNA nucleotides are added, what are the last steps?

Answer 4

4. Cool the mixture of DNA, primers, nucleotides

5. Repeat the process to make desired number of DNA copies.

Question 5

Gel Electropheresis

Answer 5

separates macromolecules (nucleic acids and proteins) on the basis of size and electrical chage

Question 6

What are the applications of gel electrophoresis?

Answer 6

• crime scene analysis

* DNA sequencing

Question 7

What are the three steps in electrophoresis?

Answer 7

1. Treat a DNA sequence with a restrction enzyme
2. Load DNA into a gel and turn on electric field (running negative to positive)
3. Gels are stained and banding patters are observed.