Lecture 23: Genomics

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts in genomics and metagenomics, including historical milestones, techniques, and important definitions.

Genomics

The study of the entire genome.

Metagenomics

Sequencing all DNA from an environmental sample to study entire microbial communities.

Recombinant DNA Technology

A method pioneered by Paul Berg in 1972, allowing the combination of DNA from different sources.

Sanger Sequencing

A method developed by Fred Sanger in 1977, based on chain-termination for DNA sequencing.

Shotgun Sequencing

A technique introduced by Craig Venter in 1995 to sequence the first bacterial genome.

Next-Generation Sequencing

Advanced DNA sequencing technologies such as Illumina that allow high-throughput analysis.

Metatranscriptomics

The study of RNA transcripts to understand gene expression in microbial communities.

Environmental Samples

Sources like soil, ocean water, and air filters used for DNA analysis.

Cell Lysis

The process of breaking open cells to extract DNA.

Guided Assembly

A sequence alignment method that uses a reference genome to assist in assembly.

SSU rRNA

Small subunit ribosomal RNA, key for identifying microbes in a sample.

Functional Annotation

Assigning biological meaning to genes by comparing them to known sequences.

Human Genome Project

An initiative aimed at mapping and understanding all the genes of the human species.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A method used to amplify specific DNA sequences for analysis.