Lecture, chapter 13 - Cloning and recombinant DNA technology

Following with the chapter on recombinant DNA and cloning...

We discussed how to make a genomic DNA library, using vectors like bacterial plasmids, bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs), or yeast artificial chromosomes (YACs).

We covered the basics of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We talked about the ingredients necessary for performing it, the steps, and some of the possible applications of this method.

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Lab 7 - Human gene mapping

In this lab we used human pedigrees to test the strength of linkage between marker genes and genes that are responsible for certain genetic conditions.

We started by discussing the basics of marker genes, gene mapping in humans linkage, and the concept of recombinant and parental individuals (based on pedigree analysis)

Then we proceeded to cal...

(entry in progress)

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Lecture, chapter 13 - Cloning and recombinant DNA technology

Today we started the chapter on cloning and recombinant DNA technology.

We briefly discussed techniques in which plants an animals can be cloned and the reasons to do so. We devoted most of the time, though, to how DNA molecules are cloned. We introduced the concept and the basic steps of cloning DNA, starting by how DNA is cut by using restriction enzymes. We described how DNA from different organisms or species, if it has been cut with the same restriction enzyme, can be combined into single DNA molecules: Recombinant DNA.

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Lecture, chapter 11 - Mutation

Today we finished the chapter on mutation.

Our main foci were types of mutations at the nucleotide sequence level, such as nucleotide substitutions, insertions and deletions (a.k.a. "indels"), and allelic expansions.

We also discussed the mechanisms that have evolved to correct DNA changes and prevent them from being fixed as mutations: The DNA proofreading mechanism of DNA polymerase and DNA repair (process in which many enzymes are involved).

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