Lecture Notes on Mutations and Biotechnology Tools

Flashcards about mutations, PCR, DNA sequencing, genetic engineering, and CRISPR.

germline cells

Cells that give rise to sperm or eggs.

silent mutation

Base substitution that alters a codon. Codon codes for the same amino acid.

What is ionizing radiation?

High energy radiation like X-rays or UV light.

What do viruses do when they infect host cells?

Cause a change to the host cell DNA and lead to a substitution, deletion, or insert.

What do you need for PCR?

DNA sample, primers, nucleotides, taq polymerase, mixed buffer, PCR Tubes

What is the first step in PCR?

Strand separation which is heated to 95 degrees Celsius

What is DNA sequencing?

Determines actual sequence of DNA bases in a specific gene segment or entire genome of an organism.

What are some applications of genetic engineering in agriculture?

Nutrient rich food, pest resistant crops, and disease resistant crops.

What are some applications of genetic engineering in the medical field?

Medical fields like insulin and genetic disease

What is guide RNA (gRNA)?

A short sequence of RNA that is synthetically made to be complementary to a specific section of DNA.