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Gel electrophoresis A process for separating molecules
by forcing them to migrate through a gel under the
influence of an electric field.
Gene A segment of chromosome. Some genes direct the
syntheses of proteins, while others have regulatory
functions. See also Operator gene; Structural gene;
Suppressor gene.
Gene amplification The increase, within a cell, of the
number of copies of a given gene.
Gene knockout The replacement of a normal gene with
a mutated form of the gene by using homologous
recombination. Used to study gene function.
Gene machine A computerized device for synthesizing
genes by combing nucleotides (bases) in the proper
order.
Gene mapping Determination of the relative locations of
genes on a chromosome.
Gene sequencing Determination of the sequence
of nucleotide bases in a strand of DNA. See also
Sequencing.
Gene therapy The replacement of a defective gene
in an organism suffering from a genetic disease.
Recombinant DNA techniques are used to isolate the
functioning gene and insert it into cells. More than
300 single-gene genetic disorders have been identified
in humans. A significant percentage of these may be
amenable to gene therapy.
Genetic code The code by which genetic information
in DNA is translated into biological function. A set
of three nucleotides (codons), the building blocks of
DNA, signifies one amino acid, the building blocks of
proteins.
Genetic modification A number of techniques, such
as selective breeding, mutagenesis, transposon
insertions and recombinant DNA technology, that
are used to alter the genetic material of cells in order
to make them capable of producing new substances,
performing new functions or blocking the production
of substances.
Genetic predisposition Susceptibility to disease that is
related to a genetic predisposition mutation, which may
or may not result in actual development of the disease.
Genetic screening The use of a specific biological test to
screen for inherited diseases or medical conditions.
Testing can be conducted prenatally to check for
metabolic defects and congenital disorders in the
developing fetus as well as postnatally to screen for
carriers of heritable diseases.
Genetic testing The analysis of an individual's genetic
material. Genetic testing can be used to gather
information on an individual's genetic predisposition
to a particular health condition, or to confirm a
diagnosis of genetic disease.
Genome The total hereditary material of a cell,
comprising the entire chromosomal set found in each
nucleus of a given species.
Genomics The study of genes and their function. Recent
advances in genomics are bringing about a revolution
in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of
disease, including the complex interplay of genetic and
environmental factors. Genomics is also stimulating
the discovery of breakthrough health-care products
by revealing thousands of new biological targets for
the development of drugs and by giving scientists
innovative ways to design new drugs, vaccines and
DNA diagnostics. Genomic-based therapeutics may
include "traditional" small chemical drugs, as well as
protein drugs and gene therapy.
Genotype Genetic makeup of an individual or group.
Compare Phenotype.
Germ cell Reproductive cell (sperm or egg). Also called
gamete or sex cell.
Germplasm The total genetic variability, represented
by germ cells or seeds, available to a particular
population of organisms.
Glycoprotein A protein conjugated with a carbohydrate
group.
Granulocyte One of three types of white blood cells.
Granulocytes digest bacteria and other parasites.
Granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor
(GMCSF) A natural hormone that stimulates white
blood cell production, particularly that of granulocytes
and monocytes (the precursors of macrophages).
Growth factors Naturally occurring proteins that
stimulate the growth and reproduction of specific cell
types. Growth factors are essential to regenerative
medicine and tissue engineering.
Growth hormone A protein produced by the pituitary
gland that is involved in cell growth. Human growth
hormone is used clinically to treat dwarfism. Various
animal growth hormones can be used to improve milk
production as well as produce a leaner variety of meat.
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