Microbial Genetics and Genetic Engineering Overview

DNA Structure

Double helix composed of nucleotides.

Gene Expression

Process from genotype to observable phenotype.

Transcription

Synthesis of RNA from a DNA template.

RNA Polymerase

Enzyme synthesizing RNA from DNA.

NTPs

Ribonucleoside 5′-triphosphates used in RNA synthesis.

5' to 3' Direction

Direction of RNA synthesis during transcription.

De Novo Synthesis

RNA synthesis without a primer.

Prokaryotic RNA Polymerases

Enzymes responsible for transcription in prokaryotes.

Sigma Subunit

Promoter recognition component of prokaryotic RNA polymerase.

Prokaryotic Promoters

DNA sequences initiating transcription in prokaryotes.

Initiation of Transcription

Binding of RNA polymerase to promoter region.

Elongation

RNA polymerase extends RNA strand during transcription.

Termination of Transcription

Process ending RNA synthesis at specific sequences.

RNA Processing

Modifications of RNA after transcription.

5' Capping

Addition of a methylated cap to mRNA.

3' Poly(A) Tail

Addition of adenine nucleotides for stability.

Codon

Three-nucleotide sequence coding for an amino acid.

Template Strand

DNA strand used for RNA synthesis.

Wobble Position

Flexible base pairing in codon-anticodon interaction.

tRNA

Transfer RNA transporting amino acids to ribosomes.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines synthesizing proteins from mRNA.

Ribosomal Binding Sites

P, A, and E sites for tRNA in ribosomes.

Charging tRNA

Attachment of amino acid to tRNA molecule.

Initiation of Translation

Assembly of mRNA, tRNA, and ribosomal subunits.

Elongation in Translation

Sequential addition of amino acids to polypeptide.

Termination of Translation

Release of polypeptide upon encountering stop codon.

Polyribosomes

Multiple ribosomes translating a single mRNA simultaneously.

Point Mutations

Single nucleotide changes affecting protein function.

Missense Mutations

Substitutions resulting in different amino acids.

Nonsense Mutations

Substitutions creating premature stop codons.

Frameshift Mutations

Insertions or deletions altering reading frame.

Mutagens

Agents causing genetic mutations.

Conjugation

Direct transfer of DNA between bacteria.

Transformation

Uptake of free DNA by a bacterium.

Transduction

DNA transfer via bacteriophages.

Recombinant DNA Technology

Combining DNA from different organisms.

Gene Therapy

Replacing faulty genes to treat diseases.

CRISPR

Genome editing tool for precise DNA modifications.

CAR T-Cell Therapy

Engineered T cells targeting cancer antigens.