Ch.12 - DNA Technology

based on study guide

Biotechnology

The use of living organisms or their products to develop or create new products, improve plants or animals, or develop microorganisms for specific uses.

Genetic engineering

the manipulation of an organism's DNA to achieve desired traits or outcomes.

Genetically modified organisms

Organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques, often to exhibit desired traits such as increased resistance to pests or improved nutritional content.

Transgenic organisms

Organisms that have been genetically modified to contain genes from other species, allowing them to express new traits.

Recombinant DNA technology

A technology that involves combining DNA from different organisms to create new genetic combinations, often used in genetic engineering.

Bacterial plasmid

A small circular DNA molecule found in bacteria that can replicate independently of chromosomal DNA. It is often used in genetic engineering to clone genes.

Restriction enzyme

A protein that cuts DNA at specific sequences, used in genetic engineering to create recombinant DNA.

Restriction site

A specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA where a restriction enzyme can cut the DNA strand.

Sticky ends

Single-stranded ends of DNA created after a restriction enzyme cuts the DNA at specific sites. They can easily bond with complementary DNA strands.

DNA ligase

An enzyme that facilitates the joining of DNA strands together by catalyzing the formation of phosphodiester bonds.

DNA profiling

A technique used to identify individuals based on their unique DNA patterns. It is commonly used in forensics and paternity testing.

PCR

A technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences, allowing for the creation of millions of copies from a small sample.

STRs

Short tandem repeats, which are repeating sequences of DNA that vary in length among individuals. They are commonly used in DNA profiling to identify genetic variations.

Genomics

The study of the complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism, including their interactions and functions.

Proteomics

The large-scale study of proteins, particularly their functions and structures, within a biological system.

Systems biology

The interdisciplinary field that combines biology, computer science, and engineering to understand complex biological systems and their interactions.

Bioinformatics

The application of computer technology to manage biological information, particularly in genomics and proteomics. It involves the analysis, interpretation, and visualization of complex biological data.