Gene knockout
Gene Knockout
Gene knockout (pronounced: /dʒiːn nɒkaʊt/) is a genetic technique that researchers use to study the function of a gene. The term originates from the English words "gene", referring to the basic physical and functional unit of heredity, and "knockout", meaning to deactivate or remove.
In a gene knockout experiment, a particular gene is selected and deactivated or "knocked out" to observe any changes in an organism's phenotype. This allows scientists to understand the gene's function and the possible effects of its absence.
Process
The process of gene knockout involves the creation of a DNA construct, which is a piece of DNA designed to recombine with the target gene. This construct is then inserted into embryonic stem cells, where it replaces the normal gene. The modified cells are then inserted into a developing embryo, which is implanted into a surrogate mother. The resulting offspring will carry the knocked out gene.
Types
There are two main types of gene knockout:
- Homologous recombination - This is the most common method used for gene knockout. It involves replacing a gene with a piece of DNA that has a similar sequence but is non-functional.
- CRISPR-Cas9 - This is a newer method that uses a bacterial defense system to cut DNA at specific locations, allowing genes to be knocked out more easily and accurately.
Applications
Gene knockout is used in various fields of study, including:
- Genetics - To study the function of specific genes and understand genetic diseases.
- Pharmacology - To develop and test new drugs.
- Cancer research - To understand the role of certain genes in cancer development and progression.
Related Terms
- Gene knockin - A technique where a gene of interest is added to a specific location in the genome.
- Gene editing - A group of technologies that allow scientists to change an organism's DNA.
- Transgenic organisms - Organisms that have had genes from another species inserted into their genome.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gene knockout
- Wikipedia's article - Gene knockout
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski