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Chromosomes are DNA structures in the nucleus of a cell - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2007 - Paper 1
Question 7
Chromosomes are DNA structures in the nucleus of a cell. The ends of chromosomes are called telomeres. Some changes in the DNA of these telomeres can trigger the de... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Chromosomes are DNA structures in the nucleus of a cell - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2007 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline one advantage of being able to detect early changes in telomere DNA:
Answer
Detecting changes in telomere DNA can lead to early diagnosis of cancer. This allows for timely intervention, which may improve treatment outcomes and potentially save lives. It may also enable family members to receive preventative advice or screenings.
Step 2
Is the doctor likely to be concerned or not concerned about the change in the telomere DNA of this patient? Explain your answer.
Answer
The doctor is not likely to be concerned about the change in telomere DNA because the alteration in the DNA sequence does not change the resultant amino acid. Both the original sequence AATCGTCACGG and the changed sequence AACGCTGCTGG ultimately code for the same amino acid due to the redundancy in the genetic code.
Step 3
Name one application of molecular biology in medicine that you have studied this year and the significance of its use.
Answer
One application of molecular biology in medicine is the design of targeted therapies, such as drugs or vaccines that are specifically engineered to target pathogens without harming healthy cells. This approach can minimize side effects and increase the effectiveness of treatments.