Using DNA sequencing Flashcards
Define bioinformatics:
Development of software + computing tools needed to organise + analyse raw biological data
Includes algorithms, stat tests
Helps to make sense of huge quantities of data generated.
Define computational biology:
Uses data to build theoretical models of biology systems
Used to predict what will happen in different circumstances.
How can computers help with analysing the human genome?
Reveals patterns in DNA we inherit and diseases we are vulnerable to.
Massive implications for health management and filed of medicine in the future
Define epidemiology:
Study of health/disease within a population –> considers distribution/cause+effect
Why are epidemiological studies important?
Lead to detection of particular mutations.
e.g: BRCA1 gene increases risk of breast cancer
What are genome wide comparison
Field of genetics that applies DNA sequencing methods + computational biology to analyse structure and function of genomes.
Genomes/gene sequences can be compared between same/different species
Example of genotype-phenotype relationships:
Marfan syndrome = mutation of FBN1 gene
Bioinformatics = allows comparisons of data + identify genotype-phenotype correlation
Predict what health conditions a person with this disorder can face.
How to analyse genomes of pathogens?
NGS allows sequencing of pathogen genomes to be quick + cheap
Identify antibiotic resistant strains in bacteria –> ensures they’re only used when effective
Identify regions of pathogenic genomes = good targets for treatment (genetic markers for vaccines)
Nanopore technology used in pandemic/epidemic zones
Explain how GWC can be used to describe evolutionary relationships?
All organism = same common ancestor
Diverged more recently = more similar DNA.
Whole genomes of different species = sequenced + analysed using computer software to see how closely related they are.
Used to track migration of early ancestors
How to sequence a protein:
Sequencing exon = tell us AA of protein.
.: Can sequence info to predict primary structure if polypeptides
Allows scientists to build synthetic biological molecules
e.: insulin, GM Ecoli
What does synthetic biology mean?
Involves transfer of fragments of DNA from 1 organism/species to another
GMO = recombinant DNA
Examples of synthetic biology:
Artemisinin –> antimalarial drug
Scientists created all the genes responsible for producing forerunner to artemisinin
Inserted to yeast cells + yeast used t produce drug
More examples of synthetic bio:
Enzymes
Pigments –> tomatoe/blueberries = health benefits
What is pharmacogenetics?
Medication more tailored to an individual
Testing peoples genomes = possible to detect whether drug will work or not
Used in breast cancer
e.g: Herceptin only prescribed if cancer cell = complimentary receptors
