Lecture 11: Dynamic Genomes, Comparative Genomics, and Human Evolution Flashcards
What is comparative genomics?
A field of biological research in which researchers use a variety of tools to compare the complete genome sequences of different species.
By carefully comparing characteristics that define various organisms, researchers can pinpoint regions of similarity and difference.
Why is comparative genomics (humans and other species) useful?
- It will reveal what makes us genetically different.
- Help us to understand what our genes do.
What is reverse genetics?
An experimental molecular genetics technique that enables researchers to elucidate gene function by examining changes to phenotypes (of cells or organisms) caused by genetically engineering specific nucleic acid sequences (within DNA or RNA).
What is the difference between forward and reverse genetics?
Forward genetics (e.g., mutagenesis screens) involves identifying the genetic basis of a phenotype.
While reverse genetics (e.g., ectopic expression) involves genetic manipulation and study of the resulting phenotype.
What is synteny?
The conservation of gene order.
What is endosymbiotic theory?
Symbiogenesis is the leading evolutionary theory of the origin of eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic organisms.
Why is synteny useful to scientists?
- Can help reveal the evolution of gene sequences in related species.
- Can identify duplicated or deleted genes.
- Help identify genes of related functions in different species.
How many percent of mutated genes are found in how many human diseases that are also found in Drosophila melanogaster?
60% of genes mutated in nearly 300 human diseases are also found in Drosophila melanogaster.
How many gene sequences code for olfactory receptors in the human genome? How many odour molecules do they bind to?
906.
They bind to an estimated 10,000 odour molecules.
How many genes does a single olfactory receptor cell express and what does it code for?
Every single olfactory receptor cell expresses one gene that codes for olfactory receptor molecules.
Do homologous genes share a distant or common evolutionary ancestor?
Common.
What are orthologous genes?
Homologous genes located in the genomes of different organisms.
What are paralogous genes?
Two or more homologous genes located in the same genome.
What is a pseudogene?
An inactivated and nonfunctional homologous gene.
What is subfunctionalisation?
When the duplicated genes perform different aspects of the original gene’s function.
