Human Genome Project, Stem Cells and Cloning

Human Genome Project A genome is an organism’s complete set of DNA A genome is an organism’s complete set of DNA Project began in 1990; Completed in 2003 Project began in 1990; Completed in 2003 Coordinated by National Institutes of Health (NIH) & U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Coordinated by National Institutes of Health (NIH) & U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

What is the Human Genome Project (HGP)? Goals of HGP Goals of HGP 1. Reading and determining the sequence of the 3 billion base pairs in the human genome. 2. Locating and identifying all genes in the human genome which there is about 30, Storing information into databases that are accessible to the public 4. Analyzing and addressing ethical, legal, & social issues involved in using this information Analyzing and addressing Analyzing and addressing

Benefits of the Human Genome Project 1. We have located many diseased genes and genetic tests have been created. 2. Researching bacteria genomes furthered research for fuel & environmental clean-up 3. Improved technology for DNA forensic science 4. Other sequences completed for E. coli, yeast, simple round worm, fruit fly, rat & chimpanzee (model organisms for studying how similar genes work in humans.) Maps of chromosomes # 13 & # 17; show the location of BRCA 2 & BRCA 1 – breast cancer genes.

DNA Fingerprinting: Used in DNA Forensics DNA fingerprinting: tool used by forensics scientists to identify a person using DNA. How it Works: A sample of the person’s DNA is taken from blood, semen, bone, or hair. A sample of the person’s DNA is taken from blood, semen, bone, or hair. DNA fragments are placed into a gel & connected to an electric current DNA fragments are placed into a gel & connected to an electric current DNA moves through the gel; shortest lengths move the fastest & longest lengths move the slowest. DNA moves through the gel; shortest lengths move the fastest & longest lengths move the slowest. A characteristic banding pattern is produced and a photograph is taken A characteristic banding pattern is produced and a photograph is taken The banding pattern is unique for each person – thus called a DNA fingerprint The banding pattern is unique for each person – thus called a DNA fingerprint

DNA Fingerprints Was any of the victims blood on the defendants clothing? Used as evidence in court cases Which dog was probably the culprit (dog that bit the person)?

How Cloning Occurs in Nature 1. Clone: an organism that is genetically identical to another organism a. All of the genes are the same (identical) 2. Examples of cloning that occurs in nature a. Reproduction in bacteria & sponges (asexual) b. Identical twins are natural clones

Bacteria and Plant Cloning is Easy 1. Cloning of transgenic bacteria creates many “living factories” used to make insulin & other drugs 2. Cloning of transgenic plants to insure genetics are intact for the next generation. Bacteria that contain genes for digesting oil can be used to clean up oil spills.

Animal Cloning is difficult and controversial Animal Cloning is difficult and controversial Dolly: First cloned animal Also called Reproductive Cloning

First Cloned Cat

What are Stem Cells & Why Do Scientists Want Them? 1. Stem cells: (link) undefined cells that reproduce continuously & can develop into any type of cells or tissues Stem cells Stem cells 2. The hope is to be able to produce tissue & organs for transplants Stem cell technology can help those who wait for organ transplants.

Where do we get Stem Cells? 1. Embryonic Stem cells are most easily obtained from embryos and umbilical cords. (work best) 2.Adult Stem cells are found in bone marrow and skin.