Question

Suppose Gene 1 produces a protein involved in the development of the eye. How can you prevent production of the Gene 1 protein in other parts of the body in the simulation? Identify two ways and include an explanation of what process each one of the prevention methods prevents.

Answer 1

RNA Interference (RNAi): RNAi is a process that prevents the production of a specific protein by blocking the messenger RNA (mRNA) that would normally be translated into that protein. To prevent production of the Gene 1 protein in other parts of the body in a simulation, a synthetic RNA molecule complementary to the mRNA coding for the Gene 1 protein could be introduced. This RNA molecule would bind to the mRNA, preventing it from being translated into protein.

Cre-loxP Recombination: This is a technique used to selectively turn off genes in specific tissues or cells. A Cre recombinase enzyme is used to excise a portion of the DNA that codes for the Gene 1 protein. This results in the permanent inactivation of the gene and the corresponding protein will not be produced. To prevent production of Gene 1 protein in other parts of the body, the Cre recombinase could be introduced specifically into the cells where the Gene 1 protein is not desired. The Cre recombinase would then excise the Gene 1 protein from the DNA in those cells, preventing its production.