Gene Expression, Mutation, Stem Cells, and Cloning

A series of practice flashcards designed to reinforce key concepts related to gene expression, mutations, stem cell biology, and cloning based on chapter discussions.

What is gene expression?

The process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize proteins.

How is messenger RNA (mRNA) synthesized during transcription?

RNA polymerase binds to the promoter, unzips DNA, and pairs RNA nucleotides with complementary DNA nucleotides.

What is mutation and how can it affect protein structure and function?

A mutation is a change in the genetic sequence that can alter amino acid order, potentially resulting in nonfunctional proteins.

Why are some genes expressed in some cell types but not others?

Gene expression varies by cell type due to regulatory mechanisms and the specific functions of the cells.

What process involves cloning a gene using bacteria?

The process includes extracting a gene, inserting it into a plasmid, and introducing the plasmid into bacteria for replication.

How does the FDA approve rBGH milk?

The FDA ensures safety and confirms that there are no detectable differences between rBGH treated and untreated milk.

What are some health and environmental concerns surrounding genetic engineering?

Concerns include potential health effects of GM foods, environmental impact on biodiversity, and gene transfer to wild populations.

What is CRISPR technology?

A gene-editing tool that allows precise modifications of an organism's genome through the use of a bacterial immune system.

What role do stem cells play in regenerative medicine?

Stem cells can become any cell type and are used to replace damaged tissues and organs.

What is the difference between somatic cell gene therapy and reproductive cloning?

Somatic cell gene therapy aims to correct defective genes in a patient's cells, while reproductive cloning creates a genetic copy of an entire organism.

What is a frameshift mutation?

A mutation caused by the addition or deletion of bases in the DNA sequence, altering the reading frame and usually resulting in nonfunctional proteins.

How does gene editing differ from traditional genetic modification?

Gene editing directly alters specific DNA sequences, allowing for more precise and targeted modifications compared to traditional methods.

What is a transgenic organism?

An organism that has incorporated genes from another species into its genome.

What is the significance of golden rice?

Genetically modified to produce beta-carotene, aiming to address vitamin A deficiencies in children.

What types of cells contain adult stem cells?

They can be found in tissues such as bone marrow, brain, liver, and umbilical cords, helping to maintain and repair those tissues.

What is the genetic code?

The genetic code specifies the associations between codons and the amino acids they encode.

What distinguishes eukaryotic protein synthesis from prokaryotic protein synthesis?

Eukaryotic protein synthesis occurs with separation of transcription in the nucleus and translation outside the nucleus, while in prokaryotes, both processes occur simultaneously.

What are potential future uses of CRISPR technology?

Applications include modifying crops for improved yield and nutritional content, and editing genes associated with human diseases.