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In this unit we will:
1. Explain how DNA and RNA code for proteins and determine traits.
2. Explain how mutations lead to changes in cell function and phenotype.
3. Explain how instructions in DNA lead to differentiation and cell specialization.
4. Explore the use of DNA in society, health and disease (see Biotechnology page).
1. Explain how DNA and RNA code for proteins and determine traits.
2. Explain how mutations lead to changes in cell function and phenotype.
3. Explain how instructions in DNA lead to differentiation and cell specialization.
4. Explore the use of DNA in society, health and disease (see Biotechnology page).
Connection to Evolution:
- The genetic code is both redundant (there are 64 codons and only 20 amino acids) and NON-randomly organized (note how similar sets of codons code for each amino acid). How can this be explained in terms of evolution?
- Viruses have the ability to evolve quickly - mutating and changing inside a host (i.e. you when you are sick). How has this contributed to the survival and persistence of viruses?
- How could biotechnology and the ability to change or manipulate DNA change the processes/mechanisms of evolution?
