gentech Flashcards
What are transcription factors?
Proteins that regulate gene expression by binding to specific DNA sequences
Transcription factors can activate or repress the transcription of genes.
What role does microRNA play in gene regulation?
Regulates gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding to target mRNA
MicroRNAs can lead to mRNA degradation or inhibition of translation.
What is epigenetics?
The study of changes in gene expression caused by mechanisms other than changes in the DNA sequence
Includes chromatin modification methods such as methylation and acetylation.
What is Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT)?
A cloning technique where the nucleus of a somatic cell is transferred to an egg cell
SCNT is used in reproductive cloning and therapeutic cloning.
Differentiate between reproductive and therapeutic cloning.
Reproductive cloning creates an organism, while therapeutic cloning generates cells for treatment
Therapeutic cloning aims to produce tissues or organs for transplantation.
What are embryonic stem cells?
Pluripotent stem cells derived from early-stage embryos capable of differentiating into any cell type
They are crucial for research and potential therapies.
Define adult stem cells.
Undifferentiated cells found in adult tissues that can differentiate into a limited range of cell types
Adult stem cells are important for tissue repair and regeneration.
What are cancer stem cells?
A subset of cancer cells that possess stem cell-like properties and can drive tumor growth
They contribute to cancer recurrence and metastasis.
What are induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS)?
Somatic cells reprogrammed to an embryonic stem cell-like state
iPS cells have applications in regenerative medicine and cell replacement therapy.
What is cell differentiation?
The process by which a less specialized cell becomes a more specialized cell type
Asymmetric mitosis is one mechanism of cell differentiation.
What is CRISPR/Cas9 technology?
A genome editing tool that allows for precise modifications to DNA sequences
It has significant implications for gene therapy and genetic engineering.
What are the implications of therapy vs. enhancement in gene therapy?
Therapy aims to treat diseases, while enhancement seeks to improve human traits
This raises ethical considerations in genetic modifications.
What does GWAS stand for?
Genome-Wide Association Studies
GWAS are used to identify genetic variants associated with traits and diseases.
Define SNPs.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, variations at a single base pair in DNA
SNPs are common and can influence disease susceptibility.
What are CNVs?
Copy Number Variants, segments of DNA that vary in copy number between individuals
CNVs can contribute to genetic diversity and disease risk.
What is whole genome evaluation?
The comprehensive analysis of an individual’s entire genome
It has implications for personalized medicine and understanding complex traits.
What is cell replacement therapy?
A regenerative medicine approach that uses stem cells to replace damaged or diseased cells
iPS cells are often utilized in this type of therapy.
What are bio-artificial organs?
Lab-created organs that combine biological and synthetic materials
They are designed to replace failing organs and improve patient outcomes.
What are chimeric embryos?
Embryos that contain cells from two different species
Chimeric embryos are used in research to study development and disease.
