Lecture 23- Biotechnology IV: RTCPR + CRISPR Flashcards
What is reverse transcription?
When complementary DNA is made from mRNA.
Why is reverse transcription useful?
From an mRNA, the DNA responsible for the protein can be made and inserted into another organism to identify the function of the protein.
What enzyme is used for reverse transcription?
Reverse transcriptase.
What is a cDNA library?
A library of cDNA fragments obtained from reverse transcription, which are conserved in plasmids.
What is CRISPR-Cas9?
It is a genome-editing tool that allows us to cut up DNA at specific locations and insert new DNA.
What is Cas9?
The enzyme that cuts the DNA strands at specific locations.
How can new genes be inserted using CRISPR-Cas9?
When the DNA is cut, the organism will try to repair it, but it can be fooled by inserting a homogenous (that fits into place) piece of DNA containing a foreign gene.
What makes CRISPR-Cas9 so revolutionary and what are its possible applications?
CRISPR-Cas9 allows us to modify somatic cells (non-reproductive). It is hoped that this new technology will allow us to cure HIV and cancer. This may work as the CRISPR would recognize the cells affected and cuz their DNA, killing those cells and getting rid of the disease.
