which technology allows scientists to directly edit the human genome

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science study guide free

1. Which technology allows scientists to directly edit the human genome?

A. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
B. Gel electrophoresis
C. DNA sequencing
D. CRISPR-Cas9

Correct answer: D

Rationale: CRISPR-Cas9 is the correct answer. A) Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is used for amplifying specific DNA segments, not directly editing the human genome. B) Gel electrophoresis is for separating DNA fragments by size, not for genome editing. C) DNA sequencing determines DNA nucleotide order but does not directly edit the genome. D) CRISPR-Cas9 technology enables precise modifications in the DNA of organisms, including humans. It guides the Cas9 enzyme to specific genome locations for targeted edits, revolutionizing genetic research and offering various applications in gene editing and therapy. Unlike the other techniques mentioned, CRISPR-Cas9 is specifically designed to make changes in the genetic code itself, making it a powerful tool for genetic manipulation.

2. What is an alteration in the normal gene sequence called?

A. DNA mutation
B. Gene migration
C. Polygenic inheritance
D. Incomplete dominance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A DNA mutation is the correct term used to describe an alteration in the normal gene sequence. It refers to changes in the DNA sequence that can result in different traits or characteristics. Gene migration involves the movement of genes between populations, polygenic inheritance refers to the inheritance of traits controlled by multiple genes, and incomplete dominance is a pattern of inheritance where neither allele is dominant.

3. The process by which a single-celled organism divides into two identical daughter cells is called

A. Conjugation
B. Binary fission
C. Endocytosis
D. Mitosis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) Conjugation is a process in which genetic material is transferred between two bacterial cells through a conjugation tube. It does not involve the division of a single-celled organism into two identical daughter cells. B) Binary fission is the process by which a single-celled organism, such as a bacterium, divides into two identical daughter cells. This is a common method of reproduction in prokaryotic organisms. C) Endocytosis is a cellular process in which cells engulf external materials by wrapping them in a vesicle. It is not a method of cell division. D) Mitosis is a type of cell division that occurs in eukaryotic cells, leading to the production of two daughter cells with identical genetic material. However, the question specifically refers to a single-celled organism, which typically undergoes binary fission for reproduction.

4. What is the main function of valence electrons in chemical bonding?

A. They are responsible for holding the nucleus together.
B. They are involved in forming bonds with other atoms.
C. They determine the element's physical properties.
D. They play no role in chemical reactions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom. These electrons are involved in forming bonds with other atoms, which is crucial for chemical bonding. By participating in bonding, valence electrons determine an atom's ability to form compounds and engage in chemical reactions. Therefore, the primary function of valence electrons is to facilitate the formation of bonds between atoms, making option B the correct answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because valence electrons primarily influence chemical bonding by participating in the formation of bonds between atoms, rather than holding the nucleus together, determining physical properties, or having no role in chemical reactions.

5. How does the developing fetus primarily eliminate metabolic wastes?

A. The developing fetus does not produce metabolic wastes.
B. Fetal waste is excreted as feces, which pass into the mother's anus.
C. Fetal waste is passed down the umbilical cord to the mother's circulatory system.
D. Fetal waste is passed down the umbilical cord and leaves the mother's body via the vagina.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Metabolic wastes produced by the developing fetus are eliminated primarily by being passed down the umbilical cord to the mother's circulatory system. Once in the mother's blood, these wastes are then filtered and excreted by the mother's kidneys. Choice A is incorrect because the developing fetus does produce metabolic wastes. Choice B is incorrect as fetal waste does not pass into the mother's anus. Choice D is incorrect as fetal waste does not leave the mother's body via the vagina.