Chapter 8 Biotechnology and Recombinant DNA Technology

Flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 8 on biotechnology, recombinant DNA technology, and associated processes.

Biotechnology

A field of science that involves the use of living organisms or their products to develop or create technologies and products.

Recombinant DNA technology

A method that involves combining DNA from different sources to create new genetic combinations.

Mutagens

Agents that cause mutations in the DNA of organisms.

Factors that can be mutagenic

Chemical substances, radiation, and physical agents that can induce mutations.

Reverse transcription

The process by which RNA is converted into DNA.

Essential enzyme for reverse transcription

Reverse transcriptase.

Example of reverse transcription in nature

The replication cycle of retroviruses, such as HIV.

Use of reverse transcription

To synthesize complementary DNA (cDNA) from RNA for cloning or analysis.

Synthetic DNA

Artificially created sequences of DNA that can be used for various applications, such as gene therapy.

Benefits of synthetic DNA

It can be customized for specific purposes, such as developing new treatments or improving agricultural yields.

Restriction enzymes

Proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences.

Origin of restriction enzymes

They are derived from bacteria as a defense mechanism against phages.

Blunt end restriction enzymes

Cut DNA straight across both strands, leaving no overhang.

Sticky end restriction enzymes

Cut DNA in a staggered fashion, creating overhangs that can easily anneal with complementary sequences.

Vectors

DNA molecules used to transport foreign genetic material into another cell.

Useful properties of vectors

Ability to replicate independently, carry foreign DNA, and often contain selectable markers.

Recombinant cell production using vectors

Involves introducing a vector containing foreign DNA into a host cell.

Gene library

A collection of DNA sequences that represents the genetic material of an organism.

Need for a gene library

To store and analyze genetic information for research and applications.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A technique used to amplify DNA segments.

Steps in PCR

Denaturation, annealing, and extension.

Components of PCR

DNA template, primers, nucleotides, and DNA polymerase.

Results of PCR

The production of millions of copies of a specific DNA segment.

Southern blot

A technique to detect specific DNA sequences in DNA samples.

Northern blot

A technique to study RNA expression by detecting specific RNA sequences.

Western blot

A method used to detect specific proteins in a sample.

FISH

Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization, a technique used to detect specific DNA sequences in cells.

Role of FISH in gene identification

Allows visualization of specific genes and their expression patterns in tissues.

Practical applications of DNA technology

Medical diagnostics, forensic analysis, and agricultural modifications.

Processes of gene therapy

Involves replacing or repairing defective genes to treat diseases.

Agricultural applications of gene modification

Crop resistance to pests, improved nutritional content, and increased yield.

Ethical concerns of DNA-based technology

Issues related to genetic privacy, potential misuse, and ecological impacts.

Safety concerns of DNA-based technology

Risks of unintended consequences, such as genetic contamination and environmental effects.