Using Genome Projects
Biology: AQA A Level, topic 8.3.1
The Genome
The genome is the complete set of genes present in an organism. The genome consists of a number of important features:
Coding genes
- During transcription and translation, the genes in the genome are read and proteins are synthesised to be used in the cells.
- The complete set of proteins that are expressed by an organism is called the proteome.
- Not all genes are used to produce proteins. The genes that contribute to the proteome are called coding genes.
Non-coding genes
- Non-coding genes (introns) are sections of the genome that do not encode proteins.
- There are large sections of non-coding DNA in complex organisms.
Regulatory genes
- Complex organisms also have large amounts of regulatory genes.
- Regulatory genes encode transcription factors and other proteins that interact with the genome.
- Gene expression is increased or decreased by the proteins encoded by regulatory genes.
- Regulatory genes are very important in controlling cell processes and ensuring the correct cells are doing the correct function.
Using Genome Projects
Genome projects are used to determine the sequences of the proteins that derive from the genetic code (the proteome). The knowledge gained from these projects has been used in the following ways:
Medical advances
- Genome projects are used to identify which genes are responsible for certain inherited diseases.
- Once the genes involved in disease are determined, potential targets for drug treatment can be identified.
- Genetic testing is used to identify if an individual has a specific gene that may cause disease.
- Gene therapy is used to replace defective genes with normal, healthy genes.
Biotechnology
- Biotechnology is the process of designing useful biological devices and systems to solve specific problems.
- Genome projects can help us understand the best designs for biotechnology.
- E.g. Investigating the genome can help understand disease. This can be used in developing biomedicine.
Evolutionary relationships
- Genome projects can be used to make comparisons between individuals and between species.
- Genetic similarities can be identified. This helps us to learn more about evolutionary relationships.
- Genome projects can also be used in forensic testing and parent/child genetic matching (e.g. paternity tests).
Genome sequencing going forwards
- Methods used to sequence the genome are constantly changing.
- The Human Genome Project sequenced the entire human genome in 2003. This process took 15 years.
- Now genome sequencing can be done in hours.
- Genome projects could be used in many more ways in the future as the techniques continue to be improved.
Test yourself on Using Genome Projects
Which of the following statements about the genome are true?
What is the name given to genes that are read and used to synthesise proteins?
Which of the following statements about biotechnology are true?