Sample exam questions for 137.302

RD Gietz

Try and get the correct number of points when you are answering. If it is a 4 mark question make sure that you put at least 4 points.

Never write stuff that does not apply.. especially if you get it wrong as i will deduct marks for making wrong statements.

Pictures are worth 1000 words. Draw a diagram and then label and explain... will get you full marks.

RDG

Question 1
Genes and proteins are said to be co-linear even though it is not obvious looking at the protein structure. Diagram and explain why this is so.
4 marks

Question 2
Explain why DNA and RNA can only be synthesized in one direction in a biological system.
2 marks

Question 3
Unequal crossing over and Unequal sister chromatid exchange can give rise to problems in the genome. Diagram and explain how these two genetic events can affect the genome.
4 marks

Question 4
Molecular cloning can be used to isolate genomic DNA as well as cDNA clones. List and describe each type vector system that can be used to clone either type of DNA.
6 marks

Question 5
Hybridization of nucleic acids is central to many molecular biological techniques. It relys on being able to label a DNA or RNA probe. List and describe two different methods for labeling of nucleic acid probes.
6 marks

Question 6
PCR has revolutionized molecular biology. List and explain the 3 major advantages and 3 major disadvantages that the technique of PCR.
6 marks

Question 7
List the 4 factors that affect PCR primer design.

2 marks