Human genome project Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is the meaning of genome?
The entire DNA in every somatic cell of an organism, including all genes and non-coding sections.
In humans, every body cell (except gametes) contains two sets of genome, each consisting of 23 chromosomes.
How many genes and base pairs are contained in the human genome?
About 30,000 genes with 3 billion base pairs.
Each set of chromosomes is derived from one parent (paternal and maternal).
What are the goals of the Human Genome Project (HGP)?
(1) To determine the sequence of approximately three billion bases of human DNA
(2) To locate all the genes in humans
(3) To store this information in public databases
(4) To improve tools for data analysis
(5) To develop and transfer related technologies to the private sector
(6) To address ethical, legal, and social issues arising from the project.
Fill in the blank: The first whole genome sequence completed was for the bacterium _______.
Haemophilus influenzae
What potential benefits does the Human Genome Project offer in molecular medicine?
(1) Identifying locations and functions of specific genes
(2) Understanding genetic disorders
(3) Developing diagnostic tests
(4) Enabling gene therapy to replace defective genes.
True or False: The HGP revealed that humans have about 25,000 protein-coding genes that account for only about 1.5% of the DNA in the human genome.
True
What limitation is associated with the knowledge gained from the HGP?
Knowing sequences and locations of genes does not mean full understanding of biological processes.
Understanding gene roles, interactions, and their relation to behavior and neurobiology will take a long time.
What ethical concerns are raised by the development of genetic technology and information from the HGP?
- Ownership of genetic information
- Privacy and confidentiality issues
- Psychological impacts of genetic testing
- Public perception and discrimination
- Designer babies and cloning.
What is one of the risks associated with the knowledge obtained from the HGP in relation to toxic agents?
Enables assessment of risks posed to individuals by exposure to toxic agents, considering genetic differences.
Some individuals may be more susceptible to certain agents due to genetic makeup.
What are some applications of microbial genomes mentioned in relation to energy and industrial applications?
- Energy production (biofuels)
- Developing environmental monitoring techniques
- Industrial processing.
Fill in the blank: The knowledge of plant and animal genomes enables scientists to create livestock and crops with improved _______.
productivity and quality
What is a potential psychological impact of revealing personal genetic information?
It may cause anxiety about non-treated genetic disorders.
Individuals may struggle with the decision to disclose genetic defects to family or friends.
