What are some of the impacts of biotechnology on crop plants in the United States?
Ch. 1 - Introduction to Genetics
Chapter 1, Problem 14
How has the use of model organisms advanced our knowledge of the genes that control human diseases?
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand what model organisms are — these are non-human species, such as fruit flies (Drosophila), mice, or zebrafish, that are extensively studied to gain insights into biological processes relevant to humans.
Step 2: Recognize that many genes are conserved across species, meaning that genes controlling fundamental biological functions in model organisms often have counterparts in humans.
Step 3: Explore how genetic manipulation techniques (like gene knockouts or transgenics) in model organisms allow scientists to observe the effects of specific gene changes, helping to identify gene functions related to diseases.
Step 4: Learn that studying disease phenotypes in model organisms helps researchers understand the molecular pathways and mechanisms underlying human diseases, which can be difficult to study directly in humans.
Step 5: Appreciate that discoveries made in model organisms have led to the identification of disease-causing genes, development of treatments, and improved diagnostic tools for human genetic diseases.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
2mWas this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Model Organisms in Genetics
Model organisms are non-human species extensively studied to understand biological processes. They have genetic, cellular, or physiological similarities to humans, making them valuable for studying gene functions and disease mechanisms. Examples include fruit flies, mice, and zebrafish.
Recommended video:
Guided course
Genetics of Development
Gene Function and Disease Mechanisms
Studying genes in model organisms helps identify how specific genes contribute to normal development and disease. By manipulating genes, researchers can observe effects on health, revealing pathways and mutations involved in human diseases.
Recommended video:
Guided course
Functional Genomics
Translational Research and Genetic Conservation
Many genes are conserved across species, allowing findings in model organisms to be applied to humans. This conservation enables translational research, where discoveries in models lead to understanding human genetic diseases and developing treatments.
Recommended video:
Guided course
Translation initiation
Related Practice
Textbook Question
628
views
Textbook Question
Summarize the arguments for and against patenting genetically modified organisms.
1080
views
Textbook Question
We all carry about 20,000 genes in our genome. So far, patents have been issued for more than 6000 of these genes. Do you think that companies or individuals should be able to patent human genes? Why or why not?
950
views
Textbook Question
If you knew that a devastating late-onset inherited disease runs in your family (in other words, a disease that does not appear until later in life) and you could be tested for it at the age of 20, would you want to know whether you are a carrier? Would your answer be likely to change when you reach age 40?
765
views
Textbook Question
Why do you think discoveries in genetics have been recognized with so many Nobel Prizes?
952
views
