The Human Genome Project Flashcards
1
Q
Outline the aim of the Human Genome Project.
A
To find every gene in the human genome
2
Q
State two ways in which an understanding of the human genome is important.
A
- Genes that are linked to different types of diseases can be searched for
- It can improve our understanding of inherited disorders, helping to treat them
3
Q
(Exam-style question)
Describe one way in which the knowledge gained from the Human Genome Project could help scientists to develop new, better medicines.
A
One from:
- Having knowledge of how genetic variations affect the way we respond to diseases - this could help scientists to develop drugs that are tailored to these variations
- Having knowledge of how a disease affects us on a molecular level - this should make it possible to design more effective treatments with fewer side-effects
4
Q
(Exam-style question)
Explain how the Human Genome Project has affected the testing or treatment of inherited disorders.
A
- Scientists can now identify genes suspected of causing inherited disorders more quickly
- People can be tested for an inherited disorder once the gene causing it has been identified
- May be possible to develop better treatments, or even a cure, for diseases
5
Q
(Exam-style question)
A
6
Q
(Exam-style question)
Explain a benefit of testing someone for a genetic variant associated with an increased risk of developing specific diseases later on.
A
- It is useful to identify whether someone has a genetic variant that increases risk of developing certain disease later
- This is because they could make diet/lifestyle changes that reduce risk of developing disease
7
Q
(Exam-style question)
Give two possible drawbacks of testing a person for specific genetic variants.
A
- It could cause increased stress for a person if they are identified as having a high risk genetic variant
- A person with a high risk genetic variant may face discrimination from insurers
