A single base mutation in a gene may not 'always' result in loss or gain of function. Do you think the statement is correct? Defined your answer.
The statement is correct. Because of degeneracy of codons, mutations at third base of codon, usually does not result into any change is phenotype. This is called silent mutations.
On other hand, if codon is changed in away that now it specifies another amino acid, it may other the protein function as it happens in cse of $\beta$-globulin of haemoglobin protein. Where a substitution of valine instead of glutamic acid causes change in its structure and function, and resulting into sickle-cell trait.
A low level of expression of lac operon occurs at all the time. Can you explain the logic behind this phenomena.
In the complete absence of expression of lac operon, permease will not be synthesised which is essential for transport of lactose from medium into the cells. And if lactose cannot be transported into the cell, then it cannot act as inducers. Hence, cannot relieve the lac operon from its repressed state.
How has the sequencing of human genome opened new windows for treatment of various genetic disorders. Discuss amongst your classmates.
The sequencing of human genome helped in enhancing the basic understanding of genetics and immunity to various disorders. Various genes that cause genetic disorders were identified with the help of this project.
It was found that more than 1200 genes are responsible for common human cardiovascular diseases, endocrine diseases (like diabetes), neurological, disorders (like Alzeimer's disease, cancers and many more. These diseases can be treated easily by knowing the particular gene responsible for the particular disease.
The total number of genes in humans is far less (<25000) than the previous estimate (up to 140000 gene). Comment.
The total number of genes is estimated at 25000 much lower than previous estimates of 140000 that had been based on extrapolations from gene-rich areas as opposed to a composite of gene-rich and gene-poor areas.
Almost all (99.9%) nucleotide bases are exactly the same in all people. Functions for over $50 \%$ discovered genes are not known yet. Scientist have identified about 1.4 million locations where single-base DNA difference (SNPs or Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) occur in humans.
This information promises to revolutionise the processes of finding chromosomal locations for disease-associated sequence and tracing human history.
Now, sequencing of total genomes is getting less expensive day by day. Soon it may be affordable for a common man to get his genome sequenced. What in your opinion could be the advantage and disadvantage of this development?
Human genome helps to find out the complete genome sequence of the human. It has many advantages and disadvantages.
Some important advantages
It provides the knowledge of the effects of variations of DNA among individuals can revolutionise the ways to diagnose, treat and prevent many diseases that affect humans. It also provides clues to the understanding of human biology. It helps to find out the human evolution. Identification through DNA forensics is also possible.
Some important disadvantages
People might discover and untreatable genetic disease. People may abuse the knowledge obtained from the HGP. Problem can occur for the ownership of the genetic test result and the patenting of human genes and DNA. People believe that they are special and unique in their own ways and may wish to remain like that.