Quiz On The Terms Of Biotechniques

Complementary DNA (cDNA) is made from mRNA using the enzyme reverse transcriptase. This process allows for the conversion of RNA into DNA, which is more stable and easier to work with in the laboratory. DNA is less prone to degradation and can be stored for longer periods of time compared to RNA. Additionally, cDNA allows for the amplification and analysis of specific genes of interest. Therefore, making cDNA from mRNA is preferred over using mRNA directly in many molecular biology applications.

Hybridization refers to a process in which two complementary DNA strands from different sources can pair with one another. This can occur when single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules bind to their complementary sequences. Hybridization is commonly used in molecular biology techniques such as DNA sequencing, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and DNA microarray analysis. It allows scientists to study and manipulate DNA by creating hybrid molecules that contain genetic information from different sources.

A DNA microarray is a handy tool for determining the differences between two cell types. It allows researchers to compare the expression levels of thousands of genes simultaneously. By using DNA probes that are specific to different genes, the microarray can detect and measure the amount of mRNA present in each cell type. This information can then be used to identify genes that are differentially expressed between the two cell types and gain insights into their functional differences.

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a type of RNA that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm. It is synthesized in the nucleus and contains a poly-A tail at its 3' end, which is a sequence of adenines. This poly-A tail helps to stabilize the mRNA molecule and regulate its stability and translation efficiency. Therefore, mRNA is the correct answer as it is the only type of RNA that always ends in a sequence of adenines.

Columns with Oligo-dT beads are used to wash RNA because they have a poly-A tail. The poly-A tail is a sequence of adenine nucleotides that is added to the 3' end of mRNA during post-transcriptional processing. The Oligo-dT beads have a sequence of thymine nucleotides that can bind specifically to the poly-A tail of mRNA. By washing the RNA sample with these beads, only the RNA strands that have a poly-A tail will bind to the beads, allowing for the isolation and purification of mRNA from the sample.

Complementary base pairing is a key property of DNA. This refers to the specific pairing of nucleotide bases, where adenine (A) always pairs with thymine (T), and guanine (G) always pairs with cytosine (C). This pairing is essential for DNA replication and transcription, as it ensures that the genetic information is accurately transferred. The complementary base pairing also allows for the formation of the DNA double helix structure, where two strands of DNA are held together by hydrogen bonds between the paired bases.

Oligo-dT beads are not a component of labeling mix. The labeling mix typically consists of Poly-T primers, reverse transcriptase, and labeled nucleotides. Oligo-dT beads are used for isolating and purifying mRNA, but they are not directly involved in the labeling process.

A microarray microscope is a tool used to analyze the data from a microarray. It is specifically designed to visualize and capture images of the microarray slide, allowing researchers to examine the patterns and intensity of gene expression. This microscope is equipped with high-resolution optics and advanced imaging software to accurately interpret the data and provide valuable insights into gene expression levels. It is an essential instrument in the field of genomics and plays a crucial role in understanding the complex biological processes.