Question

______can correct a genetic defect. a. Sequencing an individual's DNA b. Cloning a gene c. Gene therapy d. Electrophoresis

Short answer

Gene therapy can correct a genetic defect.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Goal

We are tasked with identifying which option can be used to correct a genetic defect.

Analyze Each Option

Review each provided option to determine its role in genetics: - **Sequencing an individual's DNA** involves determining the exact sequence of nucleotides but does not correct genetic defects. - **Cloning a gene** involves making multiple copies of a gene, which can be useful for study and investigation but does not directly correct defects. - **Gene therapy** involves inserting, altering, or replacing genes within an individual's cells and tissues to treat or prevent disease. This can be used to correct genetic defects. - **Electrophoresis** is a laboratory technique used to separate DNA fragments by size and cannot correct genetic defects.

Choose the Most Suitable Option

Based on the analysis, the only option that actively works to correct genetic defects by altering or replacing genes is **c. Gene therapy**.

Key concepts

Genetic Defects

Genetic defects occur when there is a change or mutation in the usual sequence of DNA. Our DNA carries the genetic instructions that guide the development and function of our cells. When these instructions are altered, it can lead to various genetic disorders and diseases. These mutations can be small, just one altered base pair, or large, such as extra or missing parts of chromosomes.
To manage genetic defects, it is crucial to understand their origins and impacts:

• **Inherited Mutations:** These are passed down from parents to offspring and are present in every cell of the body.
• **Acquired Mutations:** These occur at some time during a person's life and are present only in certain cells. They can result from environmental factors or errors during cell division.
• **Silent Mutations:** Some mutations do not have a noticeable effect on an organism's phenotype and are termed silent.

Addressing genetic defects often involves identifying the mutation responsible, which opens the path for potential interventions such as gene therapy.

Cloning Genes

Cloning genes is a technique used to create multiple copies of a particular gene, which can be beneficial for research and study. This process is integral in understanding genetic functions and developing medical innovations. Gene cloning usually involves several steps:

• **Isolating the Gene of Interest:** Scientists first identify and extract the specific gene that they want to study.
• **Using Vectors for Replication:** DNA vectors, often plasmids, are used to insert the extracted gene into a host organism. The host organism replicates, creating multiple copies of the gene.
• **Analyzing Gene Function:** By studying these clones, researchers can determine gene functions, interactions, and effects on the organism.

While cloning genes itself does not remedy genetic defects, it lays the groundwork for other technologies, such as gene therapy, by allowing thorough study and manipulation of genes.

DNA Sequencing

DNA sequencing is the process of determining the precise order of nucleotides within a DNA molecule. This information is crucial because it allows scientists to read the genetic code of an organism. Here are some key steps and applications of DNA sequencing:

• **Preparation of DNA Samples:** Before sequencing, DNA samples must be prepared, which involves purifying and possibly amplifying the DNA.
• **Sequencing Reaction:** Involves copying the DNA using specific enzymes that incorporate tagged nucleotides, allowing the sequence to be identified.
• **Analysis and Interpretation:** Platforms read the tagged nucleotides, and sophisticated software interprets the data to produce the sequence.

Once a gene's sequence is known, this information can be used for a variety of applications, including diagnosing genetic disorders, identifying mutations, and guiding treatments, although it does not directly correct genetic defects.

Electrophoresis

Electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate molecules, such as DNA, RNA, or proteins, based on size and charge by applying an electric field. While it does not directly correct genetic defects, it plays a critical role in genetic studies and medical diagnostics. Here's a general idea of how electrophoresis is used in genetics:

• **Gel Matrix: ** A gel, often made of agarose or polyacrylamide, acts as a sieving medium.
• **Applying an Electric Field:** Samples of DNA are loaded into the gel, and an electric current pulls these samples through the gel.
  The molecules migrate through the gel at different rates according to size and charge.
• **Visualization and Analysis:** The separated molecules are stained, often with a special dye, allowing visualization under UV light.

By providing a method to analyze the sizes of DNA fragments, electrophoresis is essential for DNA profiling, complex disease studies, and verifying correct gene cloning, among other applications.