AP Bio Exam Review: Gene Expression & Genetic Engineering

Vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes for AP Biology exam review, covering gene expression and genetic engineering.

Repetitive DNA

Sequences present in multiple copies within the human genome.

Transposable Elements

Make up 75% of repetitive DNA and can be moved from one location to another in the genome.

Transposon

Moves within the genome via a DNA intermediate.

Transposase

Enzyme required by transposons for movement within the genome.

Retrotransposon

Moves by means of an RNA intermediate, leaving a copy at the original site.

Reverse Transcriptase

Enzyme involved in the movement of retrotransposons.

Multigene Families

Collections of two or more identical or very similar genes.

Operon

A cluster of related genes with an on/off switch; includes a promoter, operator, and genes.

Promoter

Where RNA polymerase attaches in an operon.

Operator

The "on/off" switch that controls RNA polymerase access in an operon.

Repressor Protein

A regulatory protein that binds to the operator to block RNA polymerase.

Repressible Operon

Normally ON; anabolic pathways; organic molecule product acts as a corepressor to turn the operon OFF.

Corepressor

A substance that binds to a repressor protein, activating it.

Inducible Operon

Normally OFF; catabolic pathways; an inducer binds to and inactivates the repressor, turning the operon ON.

Inducer

A molecule that binds to a repressor protein and inactivates it.

Transformation (in bacteria)

Uptake of foreign DNA from the surrounding environment by bacteria.

Transduction

Viruses transfer genes between prokaryotes.

Conjugation

DNA transferred from one prokaryote to another.

Differential Gene Expression

The expression of different genes by cells with identical genomes.

DNA Methylation

Addition of methyl groups to DNA, leading to tightly packed DNA and decreased transcription.

Histone Acetylation

Addition of acetyl groups to histones, leading to loosened DNA and increased transcription.

Control Elements

Bind transcription factors and enhances gene expression.

Micro RNAs (miRNAs)/Small Interfering RNAs (siRNAs)

Can bind to mRNA and degrade it or block translation.

Homeotic Genes

Master control genes that control pattern formation.

Bacteriophage

A virus that infects bacterial cells.

Prophage

Phage DNA incorporated into host DNA and replicated along with it.

Temperate Phage

Phages that use both lytic and lysogenic cycles.

Retrovirus

RNA virus that uses reverse transcriptase to make DNA from RNA.

Provirus

Newly made viral DNA inserted into the chromosome of the host.

Vaccine

Weakened virus or part of a pathogen that triggers an immune system response.

Viroids

Small, circular RNA molecules that infect plants.

Prions

Misfolded, infectious proteins that cause misfolding of normal proteins.

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes used to cut strands of DNA at specific locations (restriction sites).

Restriction Fragments

Have at least one sticky end (single-stranded end).

DNA Ligase

Joins DNA fragments.

Cloning Vector

Carries the DNA sequence to be cloned.

Transformation (in genetic engineering)

Bacteria takes up plasmid (w/gene of interest).

Nucleic Acid Hybridization

Used to track a gene of interest.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

Amplify (copy) piece of DNA without the use of cells.

Gel Electrophoresis

Used to separate DNA molecules on the basis of size and charge using an electrical current.