Wk 17&18 Lecture 8: Recombinant Technology II

Overview of Nucleic Acids and Recombinant DNA Technology

• This final lecture of SCS2472 connects various concepts from the nucleic acids section of the course.

• Emphasis on fundamental biochemical principles leading to recombinant DNA technology.

DNA Technologies Developments

• Human Genome Project (HGP):

  • Initiated in 1990 with a goal to sequence 3 billion base pairs of human DNA.

  • Extensive collaboration among scientists globally, including contributions from the US, UK, France, Germany, Japan, China, and India.

  • Aimed to create a database of human genes for disease diagnosis and understanding.

  • Final sequencing published in 2003 after 13 years.

Importance of Genome Sequencing

• Genome Sequencing Challenges:

  • Difficulty in sequencing highly repetitive DNA sequences.

  • Early data collected from model organisms due to smaller genomes.

• Value of Genome Database:

  • Approximately 20,000 to 25,000 functional genes identified.

  • Initial estimates of gene count were higher (~100,000) due to pseudogenes.

  • Provides a framework for understanding gene variations and diseases.

Techniques Involved in Genetic Analysis

• Restriction Enzymes:

  • Allow for DNA manipulation by targeting specific sequences.

  • Useful in identifying mutations associated with genetic disorders, e.g., cystic fibrosis.

• DNA Fingerprinting:

  • Based on sequence polymorphisms and used in forensic science for comparing DNA samples.

  • Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP): A method to analyze DNA fragments and identify genetic similarities.

Recombinant DNA Applications

• Designing Designer Proteins:

  • Techniques to modify proteins for therapeutic or research purposes, including insulin production.

• Genetic Engineering in Organisms:

  • Development of transgenic animals and plants to express desirable traits or produce beneficial bioproducts.

DNA Microarrays and Gene Expression

• Microarrays:

  • High-density arrays used to analyze gene expression levels across thousands of genes under different conditions.

  • Utilized for cancer research to classify tumor subtypes based on gene expression.

• Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH):

  • Method for detecting specific DNA sequences and abnormalities, used in clinical diagnostics.

Summary and Future Perspectives

• The Human Genome Project has revolutionized the understanding of genetic information and its applications.

• Highlighted the importance of restriction enzymes, PCR, and microarrays in genetic analysis and diagnostics.

• Encouraged students to understand the biochemical basis in various fields, including medicine, food production, and more.

• Closing remark on the role of biochemistry in real-life issues and advanced technologies.