The Human Genome Project

Scientists have developed a detailed understanding of the human genome.

Which of these is a benefit from developing this understanding?

A Discovering new antibiotics

B Explaining why antibiotic resistant bacteria have evolved

C Predicting whether a person will develop a genetic condition

D Using embryonic stem cells for transplants

Some forms of breast cancer are linked to specific mutated genes called BRCA.

BRCA is a dominant allele.

Inheriting the BRCA allele means in both males and females, the risk of developing breast cancer is affected. It does not mean a person has been diagnosed with cancer.

A male who is heterozygous for BRCA has children with a female who is homozygous recessive.

How are they affected by the BRCA allele?

Put ticks (✓) in the correct boxes.

What is the percentage probability of them having a child with an increased risk of developing breast cancer?

Use a labelled genetic diagram to explain your answer.

Use the letter B for the dominant BRCA allele.

The human genome project mapped the human genome. This gave many benefits and risks.

Which statement is an ethical issue arising from the mapping of the human genome?

A Genes linked to different types of disease are identified and mapped.

B Human migration patterns can be traced to find the origin of our ancestors.

C Someone’s genetic makeup can be used by life insurance companies to predict their risk of future illness.

D Treatments are developed due to understanding of inherited disorders.

Scientists have used genetically engineered bacteria to produce the human hormone insulin.

Describe the main steps in the process of genetic engineering.

Insulin may be used to treat type 2 diabetes.

Describe the interaction between type 2 diabetes and nutrition.

The human genome has been mapped.

Discuss how this could help with the future treatment of type 2 diabetes.

HIV is a virus that causes AIDS.

HIV infects human cells by inserting genes into the cells. The human cells then copy the genes.

In which part of a human cell are HIV genes copied?

chloroplast cytoplasm mitochondria nucleus

In the laboratory, scientists have used gene technology to completely remove HIV genes from infected cells.

Explain how removing HIV genes could affect the spread of HIV.

Suggest why some people are concerned about the use of gene technology in HIV treatment.

The Human Genome Project mapped the human genome.

Write down what is meant by the term genome.

Knowledge of the human genome could identify the genes affected by HIV.

Write down two ways knowledge of the human genome could help with the treatment of HIV.

*(d) Some countries have set up centres where a person is counselled and tested for HIV.

The aim is to reduce new infections by 50%.

Describe how HIV is transmitted and how these centres can contribute to reducing the spread of HIV.

HIV invades white blood cells stopping them working.

Describe the role of white blood cells in the defence against disease.