3.1.1 Explain the double-stranded, complementary nature of DNA as related to its function in the cell.
Below is a strand of DNA. DNA in the cells exists as a double helix – what else needs to be added to this strand to make
it a double helix? Give the nucleotide sequence.
What are the black pentagons?
What are the nitrogen bases?
Compare RNA and DNA in the following table
DNA
RNA
Sugars
Bases
Strands
Where
In Cell
Function
What kind of weak bonds hold the two strands of DNA together?
Why is it important that these bonds be weak?
3.1.2 Explain how DNA and RNA code for proteins and determine traits.
If the strand of DNA above undergoes transcription, what will the sequence of the mRNA be?
After translation, what would the amino acid sequence be for this
section of mRNA? (read from right to left)
What is a codon?
What kind of bonds hold the amino acids together in the protein
that is formed?
What are the three types of RNA and what are their functions?
1)
2)
3)
Describe how proteins code for traits (remember the Snork
activity and Alien DNA activity).
3.1.3 Explain how mutations in DNA that result from interactions with the environment (i.e. radiation and
chemicals) or new combinations in existing genes lead to changes in function and phenotype.
What happens to DNA when a mutation occurs?
How do mutations affect the proteins that are formed?
There are two types of mutations we discussed – what are they? (use your guided notes if needed)
3.3.1
Interpret how DNA is used for comparison and identification of organisms.
To the left is an electrophoresis gel, showing evidence from a rape case.
Could the defendant be the rapist?
Explain your answer.
Which fragments of DNA are the longest? Explain.
What other ways can DNA fingerprinting be useful?
3.3.2
Summarize how transgenic organisms are engineered to benefit society.
Describe the process that is shown in the diagram to
the left.
What is the value of this technology?
What are some other applications of this type of
technology?
This process can be used to make GMO’s –
genetically modified organisms. What are some of
the ethical issues surrounding this technology?
3.3.3 Evaluate some of the ethical issues surrounding the use of DNA technology (including cloning,
genetically modified organisms, stem cell research, and Human Genome Project)
What were the goals of the human genome project established?
How will the human genome project be useful in determining whether individuals may carry genes for genetic conditions?
How will the human genome project be useful in developing gene therapies?
Why might cloning be controversial?
Embryological stem cells are more controversial than adult stem cells. Where are embryonic stem cells
obtained from?
Practice EOC questions
3.1.1
1. The DNA sequences that make up the genetic code of an organism determine which traits the organism will exhibit.
How do the instructions coded by DNA determine an organism's physical traits?
A. Instructions coded by DNA sequences are translated into proteins which express an organism's physical traits.
B. Instructions coded by DNA sequences are translated into nucleotides which express an organism's physical traits.
C. DNA sequences both code genetic instructions within an organism and express an organism's physical traits.
D. DNA sequences that code for genetic instructions attach to phosphate groups that express an organism's physical traits.
2. The following diagram represents DNA; identify the structure and components represented by W, X, and Y.
a. Alpha helix; W is the nitrogenous base, X is a sugar phosphate backbone and Y is a peptide bond.
b. Double helix; W is the sugar phosphate backbone, X is a nitrogenous base and Y is a hydrogen bond.
c. Alpha helix; W is the sugar phosphate backbone, X is a nitrogenous base and Y is a hydrogen bond.
d. Double helix; W is the nitrogenous base, X is a sugar phosphate backbone and Y is a peptide bond.
3. Identify the phase of the cell cycle during which the above process occurs and what is produced.
A. S Phase; a protein
B. G1 Phase; 1 unique DNA strand
C. S Phase; 2 identical DNA strands
D. G1 Phase; 2 unique DNA strands
4. Genes are sections of DNA that contain information to make a protein. Genes can be turned on or off to control the protein
production process. If a gene is not turned off, it is possible for too many proteins to be produced. Which of the following may be a
benefit of the overproduction of proteins?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The cells of an organism may be destroyed.
Injury repair may occur more quickly.
Mutated genes may become normal.
An organism may develop cancer.
3.1.2
5. Every trait you see on an organism is a result of that organism's DNA instructing the organism's cells. How does the information
stored in DNA's nucleotides translate into traits such as eye color and ear shape?
A. Traits are determined by the amino acid sequence determined by genes.
B. Traits are determined by the presence or absence of lac operons along a series of nucleotides.
C. Traits are determined by codons that are stored in groups of nucleotides.
D. Traits are determined by a group of enzymes known as DNA helicases.
6. What sequence of amino acids would be coded by the following set of nucleotides?
TCATATAGCGCAACA
A.
B.
C.
D.
Ser, Met, Leu, Gln, Cys
Arg, Thr, Lys, Thr, Gly
Arg, Leu, Ser, Asn, Stop
Ser, Ile, Ser, Arg, Cys
3.1.3
7. If the following occurs in a sex cell, how might the traits of offspring be affected?
A.
B.
C.
D.
They may not be affected at all.
They may be harmed.
They may receive a benefit.
All of these
3.3.2
8. The gene for the production of human insulin is inserted into certain bacterial cells. The offspring of these bacterial
cells will most likely be able to
A. Destroy pathogens
B. Reproduce sexually
C. Synthesize this hormone
D. Form human tissue
4.1.2
9. A segment of DNA has the following bases.
TAC GAT
What is the complementary strand of DNA?
A. UAG CAU
C. ATG CTA
B. TAG CAT
D. AUG CUA
10. The building blocks of molecule 3 are known as
A. Nucleic acids
C. Nucleotides
B. Amino acids
D. Fatty acids