Molec Bio 3: Recombinant DNA Technology Flashcards
1
Q
What is a mutation?
A
Permanent alteration in a DNA (gene) sequence
2
Q
What can cause mutations?
A
- Errors in DNA synthesis (spontaneous & rare)
- Chemical mutagens
- Ionising radiations
3
Q
What are the basic types of mutation which can occur?
A
- Substitution of bases
- Insertion of bases
- Deletion of bases
4
Q
What occurs in insertion & deletion which does not in substitution?
A
Frame shift occurs when bases are added or removed altering all the genes coded for after that point - can be detrimental
Substitution doesnt cause any shift in the genes
5
Q
What is gel electrophoresis?
A
Used to separate DNA fragments on basis of their SIZE
Larger fragments migrate more slowly than smaller DNA fragments