Term
|
Definition
| An approach where you determine the phenotype that results from mutating a given gene. A protein is sequenced and the gene for the protein is cloned. We mutate the gene and replace the normal gene with the mutated gene and determine what aspect of the function is lost. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A transcription factor that sits on DNA and changes the expression of DNA (turns genes on and off.) FosB was initially studied to see if it is involved in learning. FosB knockouts did not show impariments in learning but they did show defects in mothering. FosB knockout mothers did not take care of their pups. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| When a normal gene in an embryonic stem cell is substitued with a cloned knockout gene. The substitution is initially done through electroporation. There is a pairing of normal and mutant knockout genes. A double cross over event (double recombination event) occurs. Mutant knockout and normal fosB genes are exchanged. This is a rare event that must be found amongst all of the other cells. It occurs once in ever 1E7 cells. |
|
|
Term
| embryonic stem cell (ESC) |
|
Definition
| Stem cells are capable of differentiating into several different final differentiated types. ESC are malleable cells used in reverse genetics. Millions of them can be grown in tissue culture and we can look at them to find one rare genetic event. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Informal term for the generation of a mutant organism in which the function of a particular gene has been completely eliminated (a null allele). |
|
|
