Question 1

Which of the following best describes the process of gene cloning using recombinant plasmids?

Accepted Answer

A gene is inserted into a plasmid, which is then taken up by a bacterial cell that reproduces, forming a clone of genetically identical cells.

Question 2

What is the primary function of restriction enzymes in DNA technology?

Accepted Answer

They recognize specific DNA sequences and cut both strands at precise points, creating restriction fragments.

Question 3

A researcher wants to clone only the genes being expressed in a particular cell type. Which technique should they use?

Accepted Answer

Reverse transcriptase to create complementary DNA (cDNA) from mRNA.

Question 4

Which equation represents the exponential amplification of DNA during PCR, where $$n is $$the number of cycles?

Accepted Answer

$$2^n$$

Question 5

Gel electrophoresis separates DNA fragments based on which property?

Accepted Answer

Size of the DNA fragments

Question 6

Short tandem repeat (STR) analysis is commonly used in DNA profiling because:

Accepted Answer

STRs vary in length between individuals, allowing for identification based on the number of repeats at specific sites.

Question 7

Which of the following is a real-world application of gene cloning as described in the study materials?

Accepted Answer

Producing human insulin in bacteria for diabetes treatment.

Question 8

What is the main advantage of using yeast cells over bacteria for producing eukaryotic proteins?

Accepted Answer

Yeast cells can better synthesize and secrete eukaryotic proteins.

Question 9

Which of the following statements about genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is supported by scientific studies described in the materials?

Accepted Answer

No study has documented health risks in humans from GMO foods currently on the market.

Question 10

Which vector is most commonly used to introduce new genes into plant cells?

Accepted Answer

Ti plasmid from Agrobacterium tumefaciens

Question 11

A restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) is best described as:

Accepted Answer

A variation in DNA sequence that alters the length of fragments produced by restriction enzyme digestion.

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a typical use of DNA profiling?

Accepted Answer

Determining the nutritional value of crops

Question 13

The Human Genome Project revealed that most of the human genome:

Accepted Answer

Consists of noncoding DNA

Question 14

Which equation best represents the proportion of coding DNA in the human genome, given that only 1.5% codes for proteins, tRNAs, or rRNAs?

Accepted Answer

$$\frac{1.5}{100}$$

Question 15

Which of the following is a potential environmental concern associated with transgenic plants?

Accepted Answer

Transgenic plants might pass their new genes to related species in nearby wild areas.

Question 16

Gene therapy involves which of the following steps?

Accepted Answer

Cloning a healthy gene, inserting it into a virus, infecting patient cells, and injecting engineered cells back into the patient.

Question 17

Proteomics is best defined as:

Accepted Answer

The study of the full set of proteins encoded by a genome and their functions.

Question 18

Which of the following is a benefit of using DNA technology in medicine?

Accepted Answer

Production of therapeutic hormones such as insulin and human growth hormone.

Question 19

Which of the following statements about the exponential nature of PCR is correct?

Accepted Answer

After $$n$$ cycles, the number of DNA molecules is $$2^n$$ times the original amount.

Question 20

Which of the following is a reason why mammalian cells are used to produce certain recombinant proteins?

Accepted Answer

Mammalian cells are required to produce glycoproteins with chains of sugars attached.

DNA Technology and Genomics: Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions