Study Guide Chapter 9: Mutations and Genetic Engineering (Flash Cards)

Flashcards covering mutations, sickle-cell anemia, genetic engineering techniques such as CRISPR, and gene inheritance patterns from Chapter 9.

How do new alleles originate in an organism's DNA?

Mutations give rise to new alleles, often caused by mistakes made during DNA replication that are not repaired by normal cellular mechanisms.

Which demographic group in the United States is primarily affected by sickle-cell disease?

African Americans, whose ancestors originated in equatorial regions of the world.

What specific molecular change causes red blood cells to become misshapen in sickle-cell anemia?

A single mutation in the hemoglobin protein of red blood cells.

Why do patients with sickle-cell disease suffer from anemia?

Their red blood cells are less effective at transporting oxygen and do not live as long.

What physiological issue causes the crippling pain and potential strokes in sickle-cell patients like Jennelle?

The inability of misshapen red blood cells to squeeze through tiny capillaries and deliver sufficient oxygen, which can also cause blocked blood vessels.

Until recent advancements in genetic engineering, what were the only treatments available for sickle-cell patients?

Pain medications and blood transfusions.

What is the primary difference in the protein products produced by a normal allele versus a mutated allele?

Shape.

What type of mutation is produced by adding or subtracting a base from a gene sequence?

A frameshift mutation.

How does a change in the shape of the hemoglobin protein lead to lower oxygen transport to body tissues?

The change in shape alters the protein's function.

What is gene therapy?

The science of fixing genetic mistakes that cause disease.

What vehicle or agent can be used in genetic engineering to deliver altered gene sequences directly to a patient's cells?

Viruses used as a vector.

What are the primary advantages of using CRISPR for genetic engineering?

It is relatively inexpensive, relatively easy to accomplish, and precise, resulting in fewer chances for an engineered gene to end up in the wrong location.

Why is genetic engineering performed on germ cells considered controversial compared to somatic cells?

Germ cells (such as egg and sperm cells) pass genetic modifications down to future offspring, whereas modifications in somatic cells are not inherited.

Will a child inherit a skin mutation that their father acquired from sun damage?

No, because skin cells are somatic cells, and mutations acquired in somatic cells are not passed to offspring.

What other prevalent disease in tropical regions is linked to the persistent survival of the sickle-cell mutation in human populations?

Malaria.

Which mRNA codons code for the amino acid serine?

UCU, UCC, UCA, UCG, AGU, and AGC.