Topic 8 - Genome Projects Flashcards
1
Q
What is a genome?
A
The entire set of DNA, including all the genes in an organism.
2
Q
How does a genome project work?
A
A genome project works by collecting DNA samples from many individuals of a species. These DNA samples are then sequenced and compared to create a reference genome.
3
Q
What was the Human Genome Project (HGP)?
A
- Began in 1990
- Completed in 2003
- Mapped the entire sequence of the human genome for the first time.
- Publicly funded
- The information from the HGP has been used to tackle human health issues with the end goal of finding cures for diseases.
4
Q
What is a proteome?
A
All the proteins that are made by an organism.
5
Q
What can a proteome be used for?
A
It can be used to identify the protein antigens on the surface of disease causing bacteria and viruses, which can help in the development of vaccines to prevent the disease.
6
Q
Why is the proteome larger than the genome?
A
- Alternative splicing
- Post-translational modification of proteins