Biology: Mutations and DNA Technology

Proteins

Serve as the link between DNA and gene expression.

Mutations

Changes in the base sequence of a gene, caused by DNA copying errors, radiation, or chemicals.

Point Mutations

Mutations involving a single nucleotide, including substitutions, deletions, and insertions.

Frame Shift Mutations

Insertions or deletions altering multiple codons, affecting all amino acids following the shift.

Genome

The complete genetic material present in an organism.

Human Genome Project

Research program aiming to map and understand all human genes.

Gel Electrophoresis

Process of cutting DNA with restriction enzymes, separating fragments based on size using an electric current.

Genetic Engineering

Direct manipulation of DNA to modify an organism's characteristics.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Method widely used to rapidly make millions to billions of copies (complete copies or partial copies) of a specific DNA sample

Karyotype

Picture of an individual's complete set of chromosomes, arranged in numerical order.

Gene Therapy

Involves transplanting normal genes into cells to treat genetic diseases.

CRISPR

Genetic engineering technique using Cas9 enzyme to modify living organisms' genomes.