Sergey Bylikin, Gary Horner and, Brian Murphy Solutions for Chapter: Biochemistry, Exercise 11: Questions

Outline the steps involved in the DNA profiling of a blood sample.

Explain how the two helices are linked in the structure of DNA.

Describe the role of DNA in the storage of genetic information. The details of protein synthesis are not required.

DNA stores information but not knowledge. Discuss the differences between information and knowledge.

The genetic information stored in DNA is expressed in the form of proteins synthesized in the cell. A fragment of a DNA strand has the following nucleotide sequence: TAC-GGG-TCACGC-CGA-TCC-GTG-GCA-..........

Deduce the RNA sequence complementary to this fragment of a DNA strand.

The genetic information stored in DNA is expressed in the form of proteins synthesised in the cell. A fragment of a DNA strand has the following nucleotide sequence: TAC-GGG-TCACGC-CGA-TCC-GTG-GCA-..........

Deduce, the primary structure of a protein fragment synthesised from the RNA template produced by the above given DNA strand.

The existence of DNA databases raises the issue of individual privacy. Discuss who has the right, and to what extent, to access information about an individual’s DNA.

Genetically modified (GM) foods are now widely available, although in some countries environmental groups are campaigning against them. Define the term genetically modified food and discuss the benefits and concerns of using GM foods.