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Physical Mutagen

A mutagenic agent that causes damage to DNA structure.

Chemical Mutagen

A mutagenic agent that introduces chemical changes to DNA.

Carcinogenic

Having the potential to cause cancer.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)

DNA located in the mitochondria, inherited maternally.

Genetic Engineering

The manipulation of genes for practical purposes.

Recombinant DNA

DNA formed by combining DNA from different sources.

Restriction Enzyme

An enzyme that cuts DNA at specific sequences.

Restriction Endonuclease

An enzyme that cleaves DNA at specific internal sites.

Restriction Fragment

A DNA fragment produced by the action of a restriction enzyme.

Gel Electrophoresis

A technique for separating DNA fragments based on size.

DNA Fingerprint

A unique pattern of DNA fragments used for identification.

Biotechnology

The use of biological systems, organisms, or derivatives for practical purposes.

DNA Microarray

A technology used to measure the expression levels of a large number of genes simultaneously.

Copy DNA (cDNA)

DNA synthesized from a messenger RNA (mRNA) template.

Transgenic

An organism that contains genetic material from another species.

Bioremediation

The use of living organisms to clean up environmental pollution.

Clone

A group of genetically identical organisms or cells.

Ultrasound

Sound waves with frequencies higher than the upper limit of human hearing, often used for medical imaging.

Amniocentesis

A prenatal diagnostic test involving the extraction of amniotic fluid for genetic analysis.

Chorionic Villi Sampling

A prenatal diagnostic test involving the sampling of chorionic villi for genetic analysis.

Genetic Marker

A specific gene or DNA sequence used to identify a particular location on a chromosome.

DNA Probe

A labeled segment of DNA used to locate a specific sequence in a DNA sample.

Gene Therapy

The introduction of genes into an individual's cells to treat or prevent a disease.

DNA Vector

A vehicle used to transfer foreign genetic material into a target cell.

Somatic Gene Therapy

Gene therapy targeted at non-reproductive cells.

Germ-Line Therapy

Gene therapy targeted at reproductive cells, with potential hereditary effects.