8.3 Using genome projects

Define genome

The complete set of genes in a cell

Define proteome

the full range of proteins that a cell can produce (coded for by the cell’s DNA / genome)

What is genome sequencing and why is it important?

• identifying the DNA base sequence of an organism’s genome

• so amino acid sequences of proteins that derive from an organism’s genetic code can be determined

Explain how determining the genome of a pathogen could allow vaccines to be developed

• could identify the pathogens proteome

• so could identify potential antigens to use in the vaccine

Suggest some other potential applications of genome sequencing projects

• identification of genes / alleles associated with genetic diseases / cancers

  • new targeted drug / gene therapy can be developed

  • can screen patients, allowing early prevention / personalised medicine

• identification of species and evolutionary relationships

Explain why the genome cannot be directly translated into the proteome in complex organisms

• presence of non-coding DNA e.g. introns

• presence of regulatory genes e.g. those coding for miRNA

Describe how sequencing methods are changing

• they have become automated (so are faster, more cost-effective, and can be done on a larger scale)

• they are continuously updated