Explain the role of phylogenetic trees in molecular epidemiology. How do they help track the evolution and transmission of diseases?
Describe the five criteria you would consider when selecting a molecular tool for studying an infectious disease outbreak.
Discuss the limitations of Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) in outbreak investigations. How does this impact the speed and accuracy of disease tracking?
Compare and contrast molecular techniques such as PCR and full genome sequencing in terms of their application in disease outbreak investigations.
Reflect on how molecular epidemiology can improve public health responses during an outbreak. Provide an example to support your answer.
How do DNA methylation and histone modification interact to regulate gene expression?
Describe how environmental factors, such as nutrition, can influence the epigenome using the Agouti mouse model as an example.
Explain the role of miRNAs in the regulation of gene expression, using lactation-related gene expression as an example.
Why are calico cats usually female, and how does this relate to X-chromosome inactivation?
Discuss how dysregulation of DNA methylation can lead to cancer, with a specific focus on tumor suppressor genes.
Describe the primary steps in creating recombinant DNA in E. coli and mammalian cells.
Explain the advantages and limitations of using E. coli vs. mammalian cells in recombinant protein production.
Discuss the benefits of engineered insulin types and how they differ in pharmacokinetics from first-generation insulin.
How are monoclonal antibodies produced, and what is the significance of using caninized antibodies for veterinary applications?
Identify and explain the functions of at least two key enzymes in the process of recombinant DNA formation.
Discuss the ethical and practical implications of using animal cloning for conservation purposes. What challenges might arise?
Compare and contrast embryo twinning and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) as cloning methods. Which is more efficient for producing viable offspring, and why?
Explain how genome editing can address issues in animal welfare, providing specific examples.
Describe the differences between Zinc Finger Nucleases, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas9. How do their DNA recognition mechanisms affect their application?
Reflect on the challenges and potential risks of off-target effects in CRISPR/Cas9. Why are these a concern, and how could they impact its usage?
Written Response Questions Lecture 10:
Define pluripotency and explain how it is tested in a laboratory.
Compare and contrast pluripotent and multipotent stem cells with examples.
Describe the process and significance of creating iPSCs.
Explain the role of stem cells in regenerative medicine, using macular degeneration as an example.
Discuss the ethical considerations surrounding embryonic stem cell research.