1. Module 7

1.25. Page 5

Lesson 6

Module 7—Molecular Genetics: DNA, RNA, and Protein Synthesis

Lesson Summary


This lesson addressed the following focusing question:

  • How can base sequences be used to trace relationships between organisms within a family and between different species?

During this lesson you have seen how the knowledge of the human genome gained through the Human Genome Project has contributed to further developments in forensics and evolution. You have seen how gel electrophoresis is used to create DNA fingerprints unique to each individual. By completing the lab and other activities, you applied your knowledge of DNA fingerprints to isolate “genes” responsible for specific traits. You were able to identify twins and the biological parents of a child. You have also read about the evidence for evolutionary relationships that can be obtained from nuclear DNA, mitochondrial DNA, and chromosomal DNA.

 

Because this is the last lesson in this module and in Unit C, remember to submit the following items:

  • Module 7: Lesson 6 Assignment
  • the Module 7 Assessment (28 marks)
  • the Unit C Assessment (48 marks)
Lesson Glossary

 

Consult the glossary in the textbook for other definitions that you may need to complete your work.

 

chloroplast DNA (cpDNA): circular molecules of DNA found in the chloroplasts of plants; codes for the function of photosynthesis

 

DNA fingerprint: the pattern of bands into which DNA fragments sort during gel electrophoresis; this pattern is unique for every individual except twins and other multiple-birht people

 

endosymbiont theory: theory that eukaryotic cells developed by one species of prokaryote engulf another so that organelles are formed

 

gel electrophoresis: tool used to separate molecules according to their mass and charge; can be used to separate fragments of DNA

 

Human Genome Project: joint effort of thousands of researchers from laboratories worldwide that determined the sequence of the three billion pairs of nucleotides making up the human genome

 

mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA): DNA within the mitochondria; is genetically identical to that of the female parent because the cytoplasm of offspring is derived from the egg (ovum)