Gel extraction
Gel extraction is a molecular biology technique used to purify DNA or RNA fragments from an agarose gel after electrophoresis. This process is essential when researchers need to isolate specific nucleic acid fragments for further analysis, cloning, or other applications. The general steps involved in gel extraction are as follows: 1. **Electrophoresis**: Nucleic acids are separated by size using gel electrophoresis. The gel is typically made from agarose and contains wells where the samples are loaded.
GenGIS
GenGIS is a software application designed for the visualization and analysis of genomic data in the context of geographic information systems (GIS). It allows researchers to map genomic data onto geographic landscapes, enabling the exploration of spatial patterns and relationships in biological data. GenGIS can be particularly useful in fields such as ecology, evolutionary biology, and epidemiology, where understanding the spatial distribution of genetic variation is important.
GeneXpert Infinity
GeneXpert Infinity is a diagnostic testing platform developed by Cepheid that is used for rapid molecular testing. It is part of the GeneXpert system, which is known for its ability to perform real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing. The platform is designed to provide quick and accurate results for a variety of infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, respiratory infections, and sexually transmitted infections, among others.
Gene expression
Gene expression is the biological process through which the information encoded in a gene is used to produce a functional gene product, usually a protein, but it can also refer to the production of non-coding RNA molecules such as rRNA, tRNA, or microRNA. This process involves several key steps: 1. **Transcription**: The DNA sequence of a gene is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) by RNA polymerase.
Gene knock-in
Gene knock-in is a genetic engineering technique used to introduce a specific gene or a modified version of a gene into a particular location in the genome of an organism. This method allows researchers to study the effects of that gene on biological processes, disease mechanisms, or to develop models for human diseases.
Gene nomenclature
Gene nomenclature refers to the system of naming genes to provide a standardized framework that allows for the consistent identification and classification of genes across different species and studies. This is important because it facilitates communication among researchers, ensures clarity in scientific literature, and helps avoid confusion that can arise from synonyms, orthologs, or different naming conventions.
Epistemocracy
Epistemocracy is a term that refers to a system of governance where decision-making authority is granted based on knowledge or expertise rather than traditional democratic principles, such as popular vote or equal representation. In an epistemocracy, those with higher levels of education, expertise, or knowledge in relevant fields may have greater influence in political decision-making processes.
Factual relativism
Factual relativism is a philosophical concept that suggests that the truth or falsity of certain factual claims can vary depending on different perspectives, contexts, or frameworks. This means that what is considered true in one context may not be seen as true in another. This idea is distinct from moral or ethical relativism, which deals with the variability of moral judgments.
Feminist epistemology
Feminist epistemology is a field of study that investigates the ways in which gender influences our understanding of knowledge, the knowing subject, and practices of inquiry and justification. It seeks to challenge and critique traditional epistemological frameworks that have often been dominated by male perspectives, thereby obscuring or marginalizing women's experiences and viewpoints.
Fusion of horizons
The "fusion of horizons" is a concept primarily associated with Hans-Georg Gadamer, a German philosopher known for his work in hermeneutics, the study of interpretation and understanding. The term describes the process by which different perspectives or "horizons" of understanding come together to create a new, shared understanding. In this context, a "horizon" refers to the set of beliefs, preconceptions, and experiences that shape an individual's understanding of the world.
Hin recombinase
Hin recombinase is a site-specific recombinase enzyme that is derived from the bacterium *Salmonella enterica*. It is known for its role in genetic rearrangements, particularly the inversion of a specific DNA segment within the bacterial genome. This enzyme catalyzes the exchange of DNA strands at specific recognition sites, facilitating the inversion and shuffling of genetic material.
HindIII
HindIII is a type of restriction enzyme, which is a protein that cuts DNA at specific sequences. It is derived from the bacterium Haemophilus influenzae, and its recognition sequence is the palindromic DNA sequence 5'-AAGCTT-3'.
Histone fold
The histone fold is a structural motif commonly found in histone proteins, which are essential components of chromatin in eukaryotic cells. This motif facilitates the binding of histones to DNA, allowing for the packaging and regulation of genetic material within the nucleus. ### Key Features of the Histone Fold: 1. **Structure**: The histone fold typically consists of three alpha helices (designated as α1, α2, and α3) connected by loops.
History of molecular biology
The history of molecular biology is a fascinating journey that intersects with various scientific disciplines, including genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology. Here’s an overview of the key milestones in the development of molecular biology: ### Early Foundations (19th Century) 1.
Homing endonuclease
Homing endonucleases are a class of enzymes that recognize specific DNA sequences and introduce double-strand breaks in the DNA at these sites. They are characterized by their ability to "home" in on specific target sequences within a genome, which makes them particularly useful for genetic engineering and genome editing applications. These enzymes typically recognize longer, unique DNA sequences compared to typical restriction enzymes, allowing for more precise targeting.
Hox genes are a group of related genes that play a crucial role in the developmental processes of many organisms, including amphibians and reptiles. These genes are part of a larger family known as homeobox genes, which encode for proteins that function as transcription factors regulating the expression of other genes involved in development. ### Function of Hox Genes: 1. **Body Plan Organization:** Hox genes are responsible for the anterior-posterior (head-to-tail) patterning of the embryo.
Human interactome
The human interactome is a comprehensive network that represents the complex interactions among various biological molecules within human cells and tissues. It encompasses the connections between proteins, genes, RNA molecules, and other cellular components. The term "interactome" generally refers to all the physical interactions that occur in a biological system, and in the case of humans, it often focuses on protein-protein interactions (PPIs) as a core aspect.
Insert (molecular biology)
In molecular biology, an "insert" refers to a segment of DNA or RNA that is introduced into a vector (such as a plasmid or viral genome) during the process of cloning or genetic engineering. The insert typically contains a gene or a sequence of interest that researchers want to study, manipulate, or express in a host organism.
Genetic epistemology
Genetic epistemology is a theory of knowledge developed by the Swiss psychologist and philosopher Jean Piaget. It focuses on how individuals construct knowledge and understanding through their interactions with the world, emphasizing the developmental processes that lead to epistemic growth. The term "genetic" in this context refers to the origins and development of knowledge, rather than genetics in the biological sense. Piaget proposed that knowledge is not simply acquired or transmitted; rather, it is actively constructed by individuals as they engage with their environment.
MEGAN
MEGAN can refer to different things depending on the context. Here are a few possibilities: 1. **MEGAN (Modeling Environment for Growth and Network Analysis)**: This is an environmental modeling system or software used in ecological and environmental studies. 2. **MEGAN (Mobile Engagement Game Analytics Network)**: This refers to platforms or tools designed for analytics in gaming and mobile engagement.