Biology Quiz Question Pool on PCR and Taste Receptors

Flashcards covering key concepts related to PCR and taste receptor biology from the lecture notes.

SNP

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism; a variation in a single nucleotide that occurs at a specific position in the genome, which can affect how individuals respond to drugs, toxins, and other chemicals.

Taste Buds

Sensory organs on the tongue that perceive five basic tastes: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami.

Taste Receptor Cell for Sweetness

Contains approximately 2 different taste receptors that identify sweet substances.

Taste Receptor Cell for Bitterness

Could have up to 30 different taste receptors to detect bitter substances.

Gene Encoding PTC Receptor

TAS2R38 gene encodes the receptor primarily responsible for tasting PTC.

Common SNPs in TAS2R38

There are 3 common SNPs in this gene.

Amino Acid Combination for Tasters

Tasters generally have the amino acid combination PAV (Proline-Alanine-Valine).

Amino Acid Combination for Non-Tasters

Non-tasters generally have the amino acid combination AVI (Alanine-Valine-Isoleucine).

Percentage of Neither PAV nor AVI

Approximately 30% of people are neither PAV nor AVI.

Liability to Taste PTC for Neither PAV nor AVI

These individuals are generally not liable to taste PTC.

Enzyme Used in PCR

Taq polymerase is the enzyme used in PCR, with a preferred operating temperature of around 75°C.

Substitute for RNA Polymerase in PCR

Taq polymerase substitutes for RNA polymerase, carrying out DNA synthesis by extending primers.

Substitute for DNA Helicase in PCR

Heat denaturation substitutes for DNA helicase, unwinding the DNA strands.

Three Steps of PCR

Denaturation, annealing, and extension; each cycle is typically carried out 25-35 times.

Determining Length of PCR Product

The length of a PCR product is determined by the distance between the primers used for amplification.

Proteinase K in Preparing Genomic DNA

Proteinase K is used to digest proteins and remove contaminants, ensuring the purity of the genomic DNA.