Question

Match each term with the most suitable description. _____DNA profile _____Ti plasmid _____eugenics _____SNP _____transgenic _____GMO a. GMO with a foreign gene b. alleles commonly contain them c. a person's unique collection of short tandem repeats d. selecting "desirable" traits e. genetically modified f. used in plant gene transfers

Short answer

DNA profile: c, Ti plasmid: f, Eugenics: d, SNP: b, Transgenic: a, GMO: e.

Step-by-step solution

DNA Profile

A DNA profile refers to a person's unique collection of short tandem repeats (STRs). STRs are repetitive sequences in the genome that vary highly in the population, allowing for unique identification of individuals. Therefore, the suitable description for 'DNA profile' is c. a person's unique collection of short tandem repeats.

Ti Plasmid

The Ti plasmid is a part of the natural genetic reservoir of the bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which is used in genetic engineering to transfer genes into plants. Therefore, the term that fits best with the description 'f. used in plant gene transfers' is Ti plasmid.

Eugenics

Eugenics is the science of improving a human population by controlled breeding to increase the occurrence of desirable heritable characteristics. It is often associated with selecting 'desirable' traits. Thus, the most suitable description for eugenics is d. selecting 'desirable' traits.

SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism)

SNPs are single nucleotide variations in the DNA sequence that occur commonly within a population. They are frequently found in alleles, which represent different versions of a gene. Hence, the optimal match for SNP is b. alleles commonly contain them.

Transgenic

A transgenic organism is a genetically modified organism that has been altered to contain a gene from another species. These are often referred to as GMOs with foreign genes. Therefore, the most suitable description for transgenic is a. GMO with a foreign gene.

GMO

GMO stands for Genetically Modified Organism, and it refers to any organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. The suitable description for GMO is e. genetically modified.

Key concepts

DNA profiling

DNA profiling is an advanced technique that helps in identifying individuals based on their unique genetic makeup. This uniqueness derives from specific areas in our DNA known as Short Tandem Repeats (STRs). In human DNA, these STRs are sequences, usually 2-5 base pairs in length, that repeat one after another. The number of times these sequences repeat varies between individuals, creating a unique pattern for each person. This pattern is akin to a fingerprint, making it highly useful in forensic science, paternity testing, and identifying genetic relationships.

• Forensic Science: Helps in crime scene investigations by comparing the DNA from evidence to that of suspects.
• Paternity Testing: Establishes genetic parentage.
• Genealogical Testing: Traces ancestry and sometimes geographic origins by comparing genetic markers.

Understanding DNA profiling is essential for many legal and scientific applications.

Ti plasmid

Ti plasmid, short for Tumor-inducing plasmid, plays a crucial role in genetic engineering, especially in agriculture. It is naturally found in the soil bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens, widely known for its ability to introduce genetic material into plants. Scientists harness this natural mechanism to insert desired traits into plant genomes, enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience.

• Genetic Engineering: Enables effective gene transfers into plant cells.
• Agricultural Benefits: Improves traits like resistance to pests, tolerance to harsh growth conditions, and better nutrient profiles.
• Research Applications: Used extensively in laboratories to study gene function and plant development.

This tool revolutionizes the way crops are enhanced and has widespread implications for food security and sustainable agriculture.

Eugenics

Eugenics is a controversial concept that involves "improving" a population by controlled breeding to encourage the presence of beneficial heritable traits. Historically, it has been misused to justify unethical practices and social policies, casting a long shadow over the genetics field. The core idea focuses on interfering with natural selection to ensure the perpetuation of genes considered desirable, such as those for physical health or intelligence.

• Historical Misuse: Linked to forced sterilizations and discriminatory practices.
• Modern Ethical Concerns: Raises significant ethical questions about genetic manipulation in humans.
• Contrasting Views: Some argue for its potential in preventing genetic diseases, while others caution against its societal implications.

Eugenics remains a hot topic, intertwining science with complex ethical considerations.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP)

SNPs, or Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, represent one of the most common types of genetic variation among people. Each SNP denotes a difference in a single nucleotide in the DNA sequence, and these variations occur approximately once every 1,000 base pairs in the human genome. They are critical markers in studying human genetics as they can influence how we develop diseases and respond to pathogens, chemicals, drugs, vaccines, and other agents.

• Genetic Markers: Used in identifying disease associations.
• Pharmacogenomics: Helps tailor drug treatments to individuals based on their genetic makeup.
• Population Genetics: Assists in tracing human evolution and migration patterns.

These attributes make SNPs an invaluable tool in personalized medicine and genetic research.

Transgenic organisms

Transgenic organisms are entities whose genomes have been altered by the insertion of genes from another species. This genetic modification is achieved through recombinant DNA technology, allowing for the introduction of new traits that aren't naturally possessed. Transgenic organisms, often categorized under GMOs, include plants, animals, and microorganisms and have substantial impacts on biotechnology.

• Agricultural Advances: Leads to crops with desirable traits such as pest resistance and increased nutritional value.
• Medical breakthroughs: Aid in developing pharmaceuticals and studying disease models in transgenic mice.
• Environmental Concerns: Raises debates over biodiversity and ecological impact.

Transgenic technology, while groundbreaking, requires careful regulation and ethical consideration.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)

GMOs, or Genetically Modified Organisms, are organisms whose genetic information has been altered by using genetic engineering techniques. This transformative technology allows genes of interest to be added or deleted, leading to organisms with enhanced or novel features. GMOs come in various forms, including crops that resist pests and pathogens, animals that have improved growth rates or produce medicinal substances, and microorganisms used in industrial applications.

• Agricultural Efficiency: Increases crop yields and decreases the need for chemical pesticides.
• Human Health: Potentially offers fortified foods with improved health benefits.
• Societal Debate: Invokes discussions about safety, ethical considerations, and labeling.

Understanding GMOs is increasingly important as we balance innovation with ecological sustainability and public acceptance.