Genomic Sequencing Flashcards
How are base sequences identified?
Through computer programs
What is required to compare sequence data?
Computer and statistical analyses (bioinformatics)
What is revealed in the comparison of genomes?
That many genes are highly conserved across different species.
How can the sequence of events be determined?
Sequence data and fossil evidence
What is phylogenetics?
The study of evolutionary history and relationships
What are the three domains of life?
Bacteria, archaea and eukaryotes
What is sequence divergence used for?
To estimate time since lineages diverged
What do sequence data and fossil evidence determine?
The main sequence of events in the evolution of life: cells, last universal ancestor, prokaryotes, photosynthetic organisms, eukaryotes, multicellularity, animals, vertebrates, land plants.
What are molecular clocks used for?
To show when species diverged during evolution.
How do molecular clocks work?
Molecular clocks assume a constant mutation rate and show differences in DNA sequences or amino acid sequences. Therefore differences in sequence data between species indicate the time of divergence from a common ancestor.
What is pharmacogenetics?
The use of genome information in the choice of drugs. This means an individuals personal genome sequence can be used to select the most effective drugs and dosage to treat their disease.
