DNA Technology and Cell Biology

Flashcards covering key concepts in DNA technology and cell biology, including recombinant DNA, stem cells, gene therapy, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.

Recombinant DNA

Combines DNA from different sources.

Vector

Carries foreign DNA, such as a plasmid.

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sites, for example, EcoR1.

Ligase

Enzyme that joins DNA fragments.

DNA Fingerprinting

Technique used to identify individuals through short tandem repeats (STRs).

Applications of DNA Fingerprinting

Includes forensics, disease detection, and paternity testing.

Genetic Engineering

Introduces new genes to organisms, resulting in transgenic organisms.

GMO

Genetically modified organism used in agriculture, medicine, and research.

Embryonic Stem Cells

Cells that can become any type of cell; they are pluripotent.

Adult Stem Cells

Stem cells with limited potential compared to embryonic stem cells.

iPSC

Induced pluripotent stem cells; reprogrammed adult cells that become pluripotent.

Human Gene Therapy

Technique that corrects genetic disorders by inserting correct genes.

Challenge in Gene Therapy Delivery

Ensuring safe and effective delivery of genes.

RNAi

RNA interference; mechanism to block expression of harmful genes.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

Technique used to amplify DNA.

Taq Polymerase

DNA polymerase used in PCR.

Primers

Short strands of DNA that initiate the synthesis in PCR.

Denaturation (PCR Step)

The first step in PCR where heat is applied to separate DNA strands.

Annealing (PCR Step)

The second step in PCR where primers bind to the separated DNA strands.

Extension (PCR Step)

The third step in PCR where DNA polymerase synthesizes new strands.

Gel Electrophoresis

Method to separate DNA fragments by size using an electric current.

DNA Fragment Movement in Gel

Shorter DNA fragments move faster through the gel.