Exam 3 - Plant DNA Extraction and Genetic Techniques

Plant genetics exam 3 content. These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to plant DNA extraction, genetic manipulation techniques, and related biological processes.

DNA Extraction

The process of isolating DNA from cells for analysis.

Extraction Buffer

A solution used in DNA extraction containing several components that help to lyse cells and stabilize DNA.

Tris-HCl

A buffering agent used to maintain a neutral pH in the extraction buffer.

CTAB

A cationic detergent that disrupts proteins to liberate DNA during extraction.

EDTA

A chelating agent that binds metal ions, inhibiting nucleases and protecting DNA.

BME (β-mercaptoethanol)

A reducing agent used to prevent endogenous cellular compounds from degrading DNA.

Centrifugation

A technique used to separate components in a solution based on density.

Southern Blot

A method for detecting specific DNA sequences using gel electrophoresis and a labeled DNA probe.

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences, used in cloning and DNA manipulation.

DNA Ligase

An enzyme that joins DNA fragments together, particularly useful in cloning.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A method for amplifying specific DNA sequences through cycles of denaturation, annealing, and extension.

Genomic Library

A collection of cloned DNA fragments that represent the entire genome of an organism.

cDNA Library

A library constructed from complementary DNA synthesized from mRNA, containing only expressed genes.

Agrobacterium

A genus of bacteria used as a vector for genetically modifying plants.

CRISPR-Cas9

A gene-editing technology that allows for precise changes to DNA in organisms.

Transposable Elements

DNA sequences that can change their position within the genome, impacting gene function and genome size.

Aneuploidy

A condition in which there is an abnormal number of chromosomes in a cell, often leading to developmental issues.

Ploidy

The number of sets of chromosomes in a cell; polyploidy involves more than two sets.

Reverse Genetics

An experimental approach that starts with a known gene to determine its function by observing resultant phenotypes.

Nucleases

Enzymes that degrade nucleic acids, useful in various molecular biology applications.

Types of Transposable Elements

Classified into two main types: Class 1 (Retrotransposons) which transpose via an RNA intermediate, and Class 2 (DNA Transposons) which transpose directly as DNA.

DNA Repair Mechanisms

Cellular processes that detect and correct damage to DNA, preventing mutations and maintaining genome integrity.

4-cutter Restriction Enzyme

A restriction enzyme that recognizes a specific 4-base pair DNA sequence, typically resulting in more frequent cuts and smaller DNA fragments.

6-cutter Restriction Enzyme

A restriction enzyme that recognizes a specific 6-base pair DNA sequence, generally cutting less frequently and producing larger DNA fragments compared to 4-cutters.

Ac (Activator) in maize

An autonomous transposable element in maize that can move on its own and also provides the necessary transposase enzyme for the movement of Ds elements.

Ds (Dissociation) in maize

A non-autonomous transposable element in maize that requires the presence of an Ac (Activator) element to provide the transposase enzyme for its movement.