Unit 1 (K5) - Human Genomics

Question 1

What is human genomics?

Answer 1

This is the study of the human genome which involves DNA sequencing. This sequence of bases can be used to determine individual genes and entire genomes.

Question 2

What is the human genome?

Answer 2

The genome of an organism is its entire hereditary information encoded in DNA.

Question 3

What is a genome made up of?

Answer 3

A genome is made up of genes and other DNA sequences that do not code for proteins.

Question 4

What happens during genomic sequencing?

Answer 4

This is where the sequence of nucleotide bases can be determined for individual genes and entire genomes.

Question 5

What is Bioinformatics?

Answer 5

The fusion of molecular biology, statistical analysis and computer technology is known as bioinformatics.

Question 6

How do computer programs identify gene sequences?

Answer 6

1. They look for protein-coding sequences similar to known genes.
2. Start sequences
3. Sequences lacking stop codons.

Question 7

What is required to compare sequence data?

Answer 7

Computer and statistical analysis.

Question 8

What is pharmacogenetics?

Answer 8

This is the use of genome information in the choice of drugs.

Question 9

What is included in personalised medicine?

Answer 9

An individual’s genome can be analysed to predict the likelihood of developing certain diseases. This allows the most effective drug and dosage to be selected to treat their disease.