Biochemistry 2280A Study Guide - Tumor Suppressor Gene, Human Genome, Oncogene

• School: Western University
• Department: Biochemistry
• Course: Biochemistry 2280A
• Professor: Chris Brandl

Document Summary

Information is stored in dna in the form of genes: human genome ~25000 different protein encoding genes. In any one cell, ~5000 - 10000 are expressed at various levels: expression is essential for growth and differentiation of all cells. Significance of gene expression: many diseases are due to altered expression of one or more genes. November 6, 2012: by manipulating gene expression, we have the potential to prevent or reverse disease. Ex. cancer tumor suppressor (proteins required for cancer prevention) and oncogenes (genes that make cell cancerous) are transcription factors. Ex. cures inhibiting gene expression of pathogen = cure. Central dogma: dna transcribed to rna translated to protein. Why is there rna: the rna step provides an amplification which allows genes to be expressed at different levels. Many identical rna copies can be made from the same gene. Each rna molecule can direct synthesis of protein molecules. Amplification allows cell to synthesize large amount of protein whenever necessary.