5.1

Question 1

How we relate DNA to a person

Answer 1

because of many polymorphisms in non-coding regions of DNA that make it unique and different TNTRs, we can show relatedness and identify individuals

Question 2

Detecting SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms)

Answer 2

DNA microarray analysis
- complementary oligonucleotides (known sequences) are placed on microarray chip with variations for each possible SNP mutation
- fluorescently labelled DNA from individual is hybridized to chip
- can match fluorescent pattern (which squares light up) to which SNP person has since DNA will only bond to ON with the correct variations

Question 3

Variable Number Tandem Repeats (VNTRs)

Answer 3

of tandem repeats can vary largely across individuals
- can be identified using PCR and gel electrophoresis (less pairs, shorter molecule)
- highly unlikely that unrelated individuals would have the same VNTRs

Question 4

Phenotype vs Genotype

Answer 4

how the genetic variation presents itself (if at all) vs the genetic variation itself

Question 5

Sickle cell anemia genotype

Answer 5

Chromosome 11, gene for beta globin protein, HbA allele - normal b-globin gene, HbS allele - sickle cell anemia gene

HbA/HbA - no sickle cell
HbA/HbS - no symptoms, can produce both proteins
HbS/HbS - sickle cell

Question 6

homozygous vs heterozygous

Answer 6

two of the same alleles vs two different alleles

Question 7

advantages of sickle cell mutation

Answer 7

heterozygous individuals have a resistance to malaria infection

Question 8

effect of gene copy numbers on phenotypes

Answer 8

eg: more AMY1 copy numbers found in individuals with ancestors that had high starch diets