Unit 1: DNA Processes & Recombination

Question 1

What is DNA and what is it composed of?

Answer 1

Stores genetic information.

Composed of nucleotides: Cytosine, Guanine, Adenine, Thymine.

Question 2

Gel Electrophoresis

Answer 2

A process which separates DNA, RNA, or proteins by size and charge utilizing an electrical field, pushing through a gel with small pores.

Question 3

How does Gel Electrophoresis work?

Answer 3

• Electricity and gel matrix separates DNA fragments by size. Smallest fragments travel farthest
• DNA is slightly negative and migrates to the positive electrode.
• RFLPs are restriction enzyme processes that generates fragments that vary based on person.

Question 4

RFLPs

Answer 4

Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism.

Refers to differences (variations) amongst people in their DNA sequences at sites recognized by restriction enzymes.

This results from different sizes of DNA fragments when DNA is digested with a restriction enzyme

Question 5

Cloning

Answer 5

Creates identical copies of a DNA molecule.

Used to study gene function, produce recombinant proteins, and genetically modified organisms.

Question 6

Polymerase Chain Reactions (PCR)

Answer 6

Uses temperature cycling to combine a target DNA sequence with DNA polymerase, oligonucleotide primers, and nucleotides in a single tube reaction.

Question 7

What is cloning used for?

Answer 7

Used to study gene function, produce recombinant proteins, and genetically modified organisms.

Question 8

What is PCR used for?

Answer 8

Used in DNA cloning, functional gene analysis, and diagnosing infectious and hereditary diseases.

Question 9

DNA sequencing

Answer 9

Determines the order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule, important in research and forensic science.

Question 10

DNA microarray

Answer 10

A tool used to determine whether the DNA from a particular individual contains a mutation.

Question 11

Plasmids

Answer 11

Small DNA rings in bacteria.

New fragments of DNA can be inserted into a plasmid to create combinations of DNA from various organisms.

Question 12

Recombinant DNA

Answer 12

Combinations of DNA from different organisms. Created when fragments of DNA are put into a plasmid (DNA rings).

Question 13

Restriction Enzymes

Answer 13

In the sense of recombinant DNA, it:

• Cuts specific sequences of DNA
• Is obtained from bacteria (defense against viruses)
• Has sticky ends

Question 14

Ligase

Answer 14

Pastes DNA together for recombinant DNA.

Question 15

Results of Recombinant DNA

Answer 15

• Gene cloning
• Protein products
• Proteins can be “harvested” for use.