Molecular Biology: Techniques and Metabolism

A collection of flashcards covering key vocabulary related to molecular biology techniques and metabolic processes.

Expression Vectors

Used to express a gene of interest inserted into a polylinker, containing bacterial promoter and ribosome binding elements.

IPTG

A chemical used to activate protein expression in expression vectors.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A technique used to amplify a specific DNA sequence for cloning or other techniques.

cDNA

Complementary DNA generated from mRNA, lacking introns, suitable for expression in bacteria.

Reverse Transcriptase

An enzyme that converts RNA into DNA, used to create cDNA.

Sanger Sequencing

A method devised by Fred Sanger for determining the sequence of DNA using dideoxynucleotides.

Dideoxynucleotides (ddNTPs)

Chain-terminating nucleotides used in DNA sequencing that prevent further elongation of the DNA strand.

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Advanced sequencing technology that allows millions of sequencing reactions to be performed simultaneously.

Thermostable DNA Polymerases

DNA polymerases from thermophilic bacteria that can withstand high temperatures during PCR.

Lac Operon

A set of genes and their regulatory elements involved in the metabolism of lactose in bacteria.

Insulin

A protein hormone that regulates glucose uptake in cells and stimulates glycogen synthesis.

Glucagon

A hormone that signals a 'starved' state, increasing blood glucose levels by enhancing glycogen breakdown.

Cori Cycle

The metabolic pathway in which lactate produced in muscles is converted back to glucose in the liver.

Metabolic Pathways

The sequences of biochemical reactions that occur within cells to maintain life.

β-Hydroxybutyrate

A ketone body used as an alternative fuel source by the brain during fasting or low carbohydrate diets.