The genome

The genomes

• approximately 3 billion base pairs

• Contains coding regions: sections that actually code for a protein (genus)

• Non-coding DNA: less understood

Genomics

The study of genomes and the complexe interactions or genes that result in phenotypes

• functional genomics: studies the functions of genes (proteins)

Can study genetic diseases as well as genetic susceptibility to diseases

Bioinformatics

A field of study that deals with using computer technology yo create and analyze a large database of biological information

DNA Banks

• Public can store blood or saliva for analysis

• Endangered species genomes stored

• Convicted criminals

DNA fingerprinting

• looks at the mon-coding region of the genomes

• Since they don’t code for anything, mutations cause less issues and are passed on/continues to mutate

• Genomes that contain identical sections with identical sequences will produce like patterns that can be used for identification purposes

Manipulating the genome

• sections of the genome can be manipulated to allow for mass production of valuable proteins

  • ex: insulin, spider-silk

• Helpful sequences can be inserted into vectors to deliver to specific cells to try and fix genomic issues

Recombinant DNA

• DNA fragment that contains DNA from more than one source (engineered)

  • typically used with bacterial plasmids (self replicates)

• The desire is a plasmid that contains a section of desired DNA IN GOI

Restriction enzymes

Restriction enzymes are used to cut DNA into smaller fragments

Steps for creating recombinant plasmid DNA

1. Restriction enzymes skip each side of the GOI and the plasmid

2. Results in complimentary ‘sticky ends’ that can anneal to combine the two pieces

3. Recombinant DNA re-inserted into bacterial cell

4. Bacteria now replicates rapidly and multiple copies of the GOI are achieved

Gel electrophoresis and DNA

DNA is negatively charged, therefor when an electric current is applied to the gel, DNA will migrate towards the positively charged electrode

• Shorter strands of DNA will move faster through the gel than longer strands resulting in the fragments bruh arranged in order of sizes

Electrophoresis gel

Used to separate mixture of DNA, RNA, or proteins according to molecular size