[W8] Genetic manipulation of cell and animal models Flashcards
(45 cards)
Why are model systems used in biomedical research?
To experimentally test cell biology and disease mechanisms in a controlled, reproducible, and ethical way.
What qualities make a good model organism?
Easy lab handling, low cost, small size, short lifespan, sequenced genome, and biochemical relevance to other species.
What are model organisms typically used to study?
Basic cell biology, genetics, development, and disease mechanisms.
What is the primary limitation of E. coli as a model?
It’s not useful for understanding eukaryotic biology.
What is Saccharomyces cerevisiae and why is it useful?
A yeast used for studying eukaryotic cells due to its rapid growth and diploid/haploid life cycle.
How can random chemical mutation be used in yeast studies?
By inducing mutations, screening for phenotypes, and identifying mutated genes.
What is unique about C. elegans’ cell lineage?
The complete lineage of all 959 hermaphrodite and 1031 male somatic cells is known.
What is a connectome and which model has a complete one?
A neural wiring diagram; C. elegans is the only animal with a fully mapped connectome.
Why is Drosophila melanogaster widely used in genetics?
It has a fast life cycle and was key in the discovery of Hox genes.
What advantage do zebrafish embryos offer?
They are transparent and develop externally, making them ideal for observation.
Name one unique feature of zebrafish in disease studies.
They can regenerate tissues and tolerate high doses of mutagens.
Why is Mus musculus a preferred mammalian model?
It shares high genetic and genomic similarity with humans and is easy to genetically manipulate.
Why are pigs becoming more popular in disease modelling?
Their anatomy and physiology closely resemble humans, especially with gene editing tools like CRISPR.
What is the benefit of mini-pigs in research?
They replicate human disease traits while being smaller and easier to handle than standard pigs.
List three animals used for specialised research.
- Rats
- Rabbits
- Non-human primates
What criteria are important for selecting COVID-19 models?
Expression of ACE2 receptors, immune response similarity, and ability to mimic human infection.
Where can you read about COVID-19 model systems?
The Scientist article
What do the 3Rs stand for in animal research?
Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement.
What does ‘Replacement’ mean in the 3Rs?
Using non-animal methods when possible.
What does ‘Reduction’ mean in the 3Rs?
Using the fewest animals necessary to obtain results.
What does ‘Refinement’ mean in the 3Rs?
Modifying procedures to minimize animal pain and distress.
What is reverse genetics?
An approach that starts with a known gene or protein to study its function by creating mutations and observing effects.
Outline the steps in reverse genetics.
Start with a protein → clone/sequence gene → mutate in vitro → introduce to cells → observe function.
What is site-directed mutagenesis?
A method to introduce specific base changes in DNA using a mutated complementary oligonucleotide.
