University of Texas - BIO 206LCRISPRButterfly

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INTRODUCTION Scientists have determined the complete DNA sequences of the genomes for many organisms, including humans. By analyzing patterns in those sequences, they can estimate how many genes an ... organism has — humans, for example, have about 20,000. But sequence patterns alone don’t specifically show what each gene does. How can we figure this out? In this activity, you will explore a tool that can be used to determine a gene’s function. You will then design your own version of this tool to examine genes that affect the colors and patterns on butterfly wings. PART 1: Using CRISPR-Cas9 to Inactivate Genes One way to determine a gene’s function is to inactivate, or “knock out,” that gene and then observe the effect on a cell or organism. Scientists can inactivate genes in cells growing in a lab or in model organisms, such as flies or mice [Show More]

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