PCR (6.3)

Question 1

List the stages involved in DNA profiling/fingerprinting

Answer 1

Obtain DNA sample
2. Create DNA fragments (cut out STRs)
3. Amplify those DNA fragments (i.e. make more of them)
4. Separate the DNA fragments
5. Visualise fragments (i.e. look at bands created)

Question 2

Define the terms introns and exons

Answer 2

An intron refers to non-coding sequences found in DNA or RNA. Exons refer to the coding portions of DNA or RNA

Question 3

Explain why introns are useful for DNA profiling/fingerprinting

Answer 3

DNA fingerprinting usually involves introns because exons are much more conserved and therefore, have less variability in their sequence.

Question 4

DNA profiling requires the DNA to be cut into fragments of different lengths. Explain the role of restriction enzymes in this process
1) State the full name of the technique for amplifying DNA
2) List the equipment and materials needed for PCR
3) PCR is divided into 3 stages.
Name the three stages, state the temperatures necessary and describe what is happening at each stage

Answer 4

1) Polymerase chain reaction
2) Free DNA nucleotides, primers(excess), polymerase (taq), DNA molecule
3) Denaturatoi