Cloning

Today we will continue on with our discussion of genetics. This time, we will look at practical applications of genetics: biotechnology. Genetics and information about DNA has paved the way for recent research in biotechnology. Cloning has been an example of using genetics in real life. We will take a look at what clones are...

Chromosomes

Recently in my DP biology class, I have learned about genetics. Although some parts seemed familiar since I learned them in grade 10, there were also some interesting topics that I did not know previously. A section about chromosomes were particularly fascinating, since the only knowledge I had about chromosomes were that they were coiled...

Gene Mutation

We have discussed gene mutation before when talking about evolution. Mutation is indeed one of the processes that lead to evolution along with variation, gene flow, non-random mating, etc. Today, we will take a look at types of gene mutation and sickle cell anemia - a disease caused by mutation. Gene Mutation A gene mutation...

Genetics

Genes are something that everyone has regardless of gender and age. Some key topics involved in the field of genetics include traits, DNA, genetic variation, inheritance, and mutation. Let's take a look at what roles they play in genetics. Instructions for all living things are found in DNA. DNA is put together by complementary base pairs, and...

Genetic Modification

Genetic modification is a technique that became utilized quite recently. Scientists have developed skills to manipulate DNA, cells, and organisms artificially. Today, we will look at different methods of genetic modification such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA profiling, etc. PCR PCR is short for the polymerase chain reaction - an artificial method of replicating DNA...

The History of DNA

DNA. You probably would have heard this word at least once. It is one of the most commonly discussed topics in fields such as biology and chemistry. In other words, DNA is very significant, especially because it exists in every single one of our cells. Just like the cells that we've discussed before, it took...