biology

Biology Discussions

Discussion 4

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This week is all about our DNA and gene expression. The complete set of all DNA in a cell is called the genome. The complete set of all the mRNA in a cell is called the transcriptome. Read the following article about the transcriptome found at:  https://www.genome.gov/13014330/transcriptome-fact-sheet/,  then address the following:

· Explain how the transcriptome helps us to better understand the differences between cells from different types of tissues that are specialized for different functions.

· What do you think is the most interesting or significant thing about the transcriptome?

Discussion 6

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This week you are exploring how emerging DNA technologies impact our society. View the NBC News story about CRISPR found at:  https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/video/life-changer-965215299885 , then, address the following questions:

· What applications of CRISPR look particularly promising for improving human well-being? Justify your response.

· Discuss the ethical issues you believe have arisen or are likely to arise with the deployment of CRISPR.

Discussion 7

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In California, Pacific Northern rattlesnakes prey on California ground squirrels. Their relationship is a great example of co-evolution. Read the article about their relationship found at  https://news.osu.edu/how-is-rattlesnake-venom-like-fine-wine-both-have-regional-varieties/,  and then address the following questions:

· Explain why the relationship between these two species is considered an example of co-evolution.

· What did you find most interesting or significant about how the rattlesnake population adapts to the squirrel’s defenses against its venom?