Module 2: Epigenetic Gene Expression Regulation

Question 1

Epigenetics

Answer 1

Any factor that can affect gene function without a change in genotype

Question 2

Mechanisms of Epigenetics

Answer 2

• Alterations in DNA methylation

- Histone modification

Question 3

DNA Methylation

Answer 3

• Addition of a methyl group or “chemical cap” to the DNA molecule
• Used to prevent certain genes from being expressed

Question 4

Histones

Answer 4

Proteins that DNA wraps around

Question 5

Histone Modification

Answer 5

• Histones squeeze DNA tightly so it can’t be read by the cell
• Histones can also be relaxed to make the DNA accessible to proteins that read genes

Question 6

Imprinting

Answer 6

-Differential expression of a gene that depends on the sex of the parent that transmitted the gene

Question 7

What are genes that are transcribed most likely to be located on a chromosome?

Answer 7

Light colored bands

Question 8

What mechanism is used for cellular imprinting?

Answer 8

Methylation

Question 9

What is the role of normal X-inactivation?

Answer 9

To ensure the same amount of active genetic information from the X chromosome in males and females