Animal
Applications of cell culture
Cell culture is one of the major tools used in cellular and molecular biology, providing excellent
model systems for studying the normal physiology and biochemistry of cells (e.G., metabolic
studies, aging), the effects of drugs and toxic compounds on the cells and mutagenesis and
carcinogenesis. It is also used in drug screening and development and large scale manufacturing
of biological compounds (e.G., vaccines, therapeutic proteins). The major advantage of using cell
culture
Read MoreMolecular Biology Techniques: Gene Therapy and cDNA Library Creation
Gene Therapy: Concepts and Applications
Ever since the dawn of mankind, diseases have plagued humans over the ages. Years of innovations and advancements in science have provided us with a deeper understanding of how diseases work. This has led to lower mortality rates and longer lifespans. But there are some diseases that just cannot be cured using traditional medicine or surgery. Gene therapy is an experimental technique that caters to patients with such diseases.
What is Gene Therapy?
Gene therapy
Read MoreUnderstanding Chemical Reactions and Equilibrium in Systems
1. If there is a chemical reaction within a system, this system cannot be a closed system.
False – A closed system does not exchange matter with its surroundings. Mass is conserved in a chemical reaction. Therefore, it is possible that a reaction happens within a closed system as long as no mass is exchanged with its surroundings.
2. If there is a chemical reaction within a system, this system cannot be in equilibrium.
False – It is possible for a system to be in equilibrium even if a chemical
Read MoreMolecular Probes: Types and DNA Library Screening Techniques
Molecular Probes: Definition, Types, and Library Screening
Types of Probes
- DNA Probes: These are single- or double-stranded DNA sequences used
Cellular Energy and Enzyme Function: Biochemistry Fundamentals
Cellular Life and Open Systems
Living cells function as open systems, constantly exchanging matter and energy with their environment.
Key System Definitions
- Open System: A system that continuously exchanges matter and energy with its surroundings, transforming and storing energy to perform biological activities.
- Equilibrium System: A system where the values of certain predefined variables are maintained over time within a range of tolerance.
- Dynamic Balance of Flows: The typical state of living organisms,
Genetic Modification and Uses of Transgenic Animals
Understanding Transgenic Animals
Transgenic animals are animals with a modified genome. A foreign gene is inserted into the animal’s genome to alter its DNA. This method is performed to improve the genetic traits of the target animal.
Initially, the improvement of genetic traits was achieved through selective breeding methods. In this process, animals with desired genetic characteristics were mated to produce offspring with improved traits. Since this technique was time-consuming and expensive, it
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