Topic 3 - The Structure Of DNA , The Genome And Extracting DNA Flashcards
What does DNA stand for?
Deoxyribonucleic acid
Where is DNA found?
In the nucleus
What is the primary function of DNA?
Contains genetic material and instructions for the body
What are the building blocks of DNA?
Nucleotides
What are the components of a nucleotide?
- One sugar molecule
- One phosphate molecule
- One of the four types of organic bases
What forms the backbone of DNA?
Sugar and phosphate molecules
What are the four types of organic bases in DNA?
- A (Adenine)
- C (Cytosine)
- G (Guanine)
- T (Thymine)
What are the two components that make up each DNA molecule?
Two DNA strands twisted together
What is the term for the pairing of bases in DNA?
Complementary base pairing
Which bases pair together in DNA?
- A with T
- C with G
What does the order of bases in DNA form?
A genetic code
What is the structure formed by two strands of DNA?
Double helix
What is a gene?
A short section of DNA that codes for amino acids
How many types of amino acids are there?
20 types
What does the term genome refer to?
All the genetic information (DNA) of a single organism
What has the study of the human genome improved our understanding of?
- Genes linked to diseases
- Treatment of inherited disorders
- Human migration patterns
What household ingredients are needed to extract DNA from fruit?
- 50ml cold water
- Half a teaspoon of salt
- 10ml washing up liquid
What temperature should the mixture be heated to when extracting DNA?
50C
What fruit is used in the DNA extraction method described?
Kiwi
What is the purpose of adding pineapple juice during DNA extraction?
Contains bromelain which breaks down proteins attached to DNA
What does the addition of ethanol do in the DNA extraction process?
Causes the DNA to precipitate out of the solution
What should be observed after adding ethanol in the DNA extraction process?
A white mass precipitating at the top of the tube
Fill in the blank: A gene codes for many _______.
Amino acids
True or False: The human genome study has no relevance to the treatment of inherited disorders.
False