20 Biological Science Eighth Edition Chapter 20: The Molecular Revolution

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the molecular revolution in biotechnology and genomics as presented in the lecture notes.

Recombinant DNA technology

A method that allows researchers to mix and match specific DNA sequences from any organism to create new DNA molecules.

DNA Cloning

The process of producing many copies of a gene or other DNA sequence, typically involving insertion into a plasmid.

Restriction endonucleases

Enzymes that cut DNA molecules at specific sites, used in DNA cloning.

Gene knockouts

A research method that involves disabling a gene to study its function by observing the effects of its absence.

Transgenic plants

Plants that have been genetically modified to contain genes from other species, often to enhance desirable traits.

CRISPR-Cas

A genome editing tool that allows for precise alterations in an organism's DNA.

NGS (Next Generation Sequencing)

A method used to rapidly sequence large amounts of DNA, significantly advancing genetic research.

Ex vivo gene therapy

A therapeutic strategy where cells are removed from a patient, modified, and then reintroduced into the patient.

In vivo gene therapy

Gene therapy where vectors are directly introduced into a patient's body to deliver therapeutic genes.

Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)

A site in DNA that varies among individuals by a single base pair, used as a genetic marker.

Bioinformatics

The use of software and algorithms to gather, analyze, and interpret biological data, especially genetic data.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A technique used to amplify small segments of DNA, producing millions of copies in a short time.

Transposable elements

Sequences of DNA that can change their position within the genome, often causing mutations.

Lateral gene transfer

The process by which genes are transferred between organisms in a way other than traditional reproduction.

Pseudogene

A nonfunctional gene that results from gene duplication and subsequent mutations.