Non-Coding DNA Flashcards
True or False:
On a strand of DNA, as soon as one gene ends, another begins.
False, there are long segments of DNA bases between genes (and also within genes) called non-coding regions
True or False:
On a given chromosome, there’s more DNA NOT coding for a gene than coding for genes.
True, only about 1-2% of DNA bases are part of a gene to produce proteins.
Non-coding DNA does not produce proteins, but serves several other functions.
name 5 functions of Non-coding DNA
1) Controls transcription (shows the machinery where to start, blocks it, etc)
2) Provides telomere caps at the end of the chromosome. This serves to buffer against the shortening of the chromosome during replication.
3) Are found within genes, allows a mix & match to make proteins
4) Codes for RNA molecules that don’t make a protein (like tRNA)
5) Creates space between genes. Contain polymorphism (repeating sequences)
explain the importance of non-coding regions of DNA
1) to understand how the proteins work, the role of genes in inheritance, the role of genes in disease, you will study genes.
2) to manipulate DNA, make copies of genes, use DNA to identify a person, work on biological engineering you need the non-coding regions of DNA for that.
define palindrome
- a word or phrase that reads the same thing forwards and backwards
- ex: KAYAK, ROTATOR, MY GYM
- in DNA, a palindromic sequences will read the same forwards and backwards when comparing the two complementary strands
describes restriction enzymes
1) they cut the two strands of DNA
2) they will cut at specific palindromic sequences called restriction sites
3) some make a staggered cut (z-shaped, leaving a few unpaired bases at each end)
4) these “sticky ends” will allow new DNA segments to be added and attached there
5) others leave a blunt end (cut straight through) Theses cannot be re-glued to other DNA segments
True or false:
Each type of restriction enzyme recognizes its own palindrome.
True
