BIOL 105: Cloning, PCR, and Speciation

Flashcards on Cloning, PCR, and Speciation

Sympatric Speciation: Autopolyploidy

Failure of cell division after chromosome duplication gives rise to tetraploid tissue, leading to reproductive isolation in one generation.

Sympatric Speciation: Allopolyploidy

Formation of a new species due to chromosomal rearrangement between two different species, producing polyploid offspring that can't mate with either parent.

Allopatric Speciation

Speciation that occurs when two populations are in separate areas, either due to dispersal (migration) or vicariance (geology).

Sympatric Speciation

Speciation that occurs when two populations are in the same area, either due to chromosomal rearrangement or gradual changes (sexual selection or habitat differentiation).

Cloning

Taking DNA from one location and copying it into a different location, either the full genome or a subset of DNA.

Recombinant DNA Technology

DNA from multiple distinct sources is combined; also called genetic engineering.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A way to quickly amplify a specific region of DNA in a test tube. Requires denaturation, annealing, and elongation.

PCR Ingredients

Single-stranded DNA template, a primer with a 3'-OH group, and free nucleotides (dNTPs).

Cloning Genes

Producing large numbers of identical copies of DNA, typically by placing the gene of interest into bacteria.

Cloning Vector

A stable, replicating DNA molecule that can carry foreign DNA into a bacterial cell.

Restriction Enzymes

Molecular scissors that cut DNA at specific palindromic sequences.

Restriction Sites

Specific sequences in DNA recognized by restriction enzymes.

DNA Ligase

Enzyme required to seal nicks in the phosphate backbone of DNA.

Gel Electrophoresis

A laboratory method used to separate mixtures of DNA, RNA, or proteins according to their size and electrical charge.

Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT)

Cloning entire animals by taking the nucleus out of a donor cell and placing it into an egg cell lacking a nucleus.

CRISPR

Gene editing technique that specifically alters a DNA sequence.

Guide RNA (gRNA)

Binds to a target DNA sequence in CRISPR.

Cas9 Enzyme

Cuts the DNA strand into two pieces in CRISPR.

RT-PCR

Reverse transcription PCR, used to detect RNA viruses like SARS-CoV2 by converting RNA to DNA then amplifying it.

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

Conditions under which allele and genotype frequencies in a population will remain constant from generation to generation in the absence of other evolutionary influences.

Polyploidy

A condition in which an organism has more than two sets of chromosomes.