Biotechnology Flashcards
(19 cards)
What are Restriction Enzymes?
Proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences
They are essential tools in molecular biology for DNA manipulation.
What are Restriction Sites?
Specific sequences of nucleotides where restriction enzymes cut DNA
These sites are often palindromic.
What are Sticky Ends?
Overhanging sequences of DNA created after a restriction enzyme cuts
They facilitate the joining of DNA fragments.
What are Blunt Ends?
Straight cuts in DNA with no overhangs
They can also be used for DNA ligation, but less efficiently than sticky ends.
How does Gel Electrophoresis work?
Separates DNA fragments based on size using an electric field
Smaller fragments move faster through the gel matrix.
What are the main steps of Gel Electrophoresis?
- Prepare the gel
- Load DNA samples
- Apply electric current
- Stain and visualize the DNA
This process helps in analyzing DNA fragments.
How is Gel Electrophoresis read?
By comparing the distance traveled by DNA fragments to a DNA ladder
DNA fragments appear as bands on the gel.
What does PCR do?
Amplifies specific DNA sequences
PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction.
How does PCR work?
- Denaturation
- Annealing
- Extension
These steps are repeated for multiple cycles to increase DNA quantity.
What is DNA Fingerprinting?
A technique used to identify individuals based on their unique DNA patterns
It often looks for variations in DNA sequences.
What does DNA Fingerprinting look for?
Variations in DNA sequences, such as Short Tandem Repeats (STRs)
These variations are unique to individuals.
What is the purpose of DNA Fingerprinting?
Used for criminal investigations, paternity testing, and genetic studies
It helps in identifying genetic relationships.
What is Cloning?
The process of creating identical copies of an organism or DNA
This can involve somatic cell nuclear transfer or gene cloning.
What is Genetic Engineering?
The direct manipulation of an organism’s genes using biotechnology
It allows for the creation of genetically modified organisms.
Why is Genetic Engineering possible?
Due to the understanding of DNA structure and function
Techniques like CRISPR enhance its feasibility.
What is the purpose of Genetic Engineering?
To create organisms with desired traits or to produce biological products
It has applications in medicine, agriculture, and research.
What does Genetic Engineering produce?
Recombinant DNA and genetically modified organisms
This can lead to new therapies and crop improvements.
What is needed to make recombinant DNA?
Restriction enzymes, DNA ligase, and a vector
This allows for the combination of DNA from different sources.
What is a Transgenic Organism?
An organism that contains a gene or genes which have been artificially inserted
This can involve genes from different species.
