GENE TARGETING Meaning and
Definition
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Gene targeting is a method used in molecular biology to manipulate and alter specific genes within an organism's DNA. It involves the precise modification or disruption of a target gene's sequence, allowing scientists to study its function and the resulting effects on the organism. This process is generally carried out in vitro using various techniques, such as recombinant DNA technology and gene editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9.
Gene targeting plays a crucial role in genetic research as it allows scientists to investigate the specific functions and roles of individual genes in different organisms. By altering or removing a target gene, researchers can observe the resulting phenotypic changes, providing valuable insights into the gene's normal function or its role in disease development.
Typically, gene targeting involves the insertion, deletion, or mutation of specific DNA sequences within the target gene. This can be achieved by introducing a foreign DNA fragment into the target gene, replacing a specific DNA sequence with engineered DNA, or utilizing gene editing techniques to edit the DNA directly. By precisely modifying the target gene, scientists can analyze the effects on the organism and potentially develop new therapies for genetic disorders.
Overall, gene targeting is a powerful tool in genetic research, enabling scientists to investigate the function of genes and explore their roles in various biological processes. By understanding gene function at a molecular level, researchers can gain valuable insights into the complexities of life and potentially discover novel treatments for genetic diseases.
Common Misspellings for GENE TARGETING
- fene targeting
- vene targeting
- bene targeting
- hene targeting
- yene targeting
- tene targeting
- gwne targeting
- gsne targeting
- gdne targeting
- grne targeting
- g4ne targeting
- g3ne targeting
- gebe targeting
- geme targeting
- geje targeting
- gehe targeting
- genw targeting
- gens targeting
- gend targeting
- genr targeting
Etymology of GENE TARGETING
The word "gene targeting" is a term that emerged in the field of molecular biology and genetic engineering. Its etymology can be understood by breaking it down into its constituent parts.
1. Gene: The term "gene" was originally coined by Danish scientist Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909 to describe the fundamental unit of heredity, responsible for transmitting traits from one generation to the next. The word "gene" is derived from the Greek word "genos", meaning "race" or "kind".
2. Targeting: The term "targeting" refers to the deliberate selection of a specific object or entity for a particular purpose. It originates from the late Middle English word "target", meaning a "shield" used for practice in archery. Over time, "targeting" came to mean focusing or aiming for a specific goal or objective.
