A research laboratory is investigating a newly discovered bacterial species found in a deep-sea hydrothermal vent. Initial genomic analysis reveals the presence of a CRISPR-Cas system. The researchers hypothesize that this system is crucial for the bacteria’s survival in its extreme environment, potentially providing resistance against novel bacteriophages or enabling adaptation to the unique chemical conditions.
Discuss how the CRISPR-Cas system might function in this novel bacterial species to provide a selective advantage in its deep-sea environment. Your answer should address both the potential role of CRISPR-Cas in defense against bacteriophages and its possible involvement in adaptation to the extreme chemical conditions of the hydrothermal vent.
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Create Free Account Log inThis is a free VCE Units 3 & 4 Biology practice question worth 8 marks, testing your understanding of CRISPR-Cas9 function. It falls under What is the role of nucleic acids and proteins in maintaining life? in Unit 3: How do cells maintain life?. Submit your answer above to receive instant AI-powered marking and personalised feedback.
In this unit students investigate the workings of the cell from several perspectives. They explore the relationship between nucleic acids and proteins as key molecules in cellular processes. Students analyse the structure and function of nucleic acids as information molecules, gene structure and expression in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and proteins as a diverse group of functional molecules. They examine the biological consequences of manipulating the DNA molecule and applying biotechnologies. Students explore the structure, regulation and rate of biochemical pathways, with reference to photosynthesis and cellular respiration. They explore how the application of biotechnologies to biochemical pathways could lead to improvements in agricultural practices. Students apply their knowledge of cellular processes through investigation of a selected case study, data analysis and/or a bioethical issue. Examples of investigation topics include, but are not limited to: discovery and development of the model of the structure of DNA; proteomic research applications; transgenic organism use in agriculture; use, research and regulation of gene technologies, including CRISPR-Cas9; outcomes and unexpected consequences of the use of enzyme inhibitors such as pesticides and drugs; research into increasing efficiency of photosynthesis or cellular respiration or impact of poisons on the cellular respiration pathway. A student-designed scientific investigation related to cellular processes and/or responses to challenges over time is undertaken in either Unit 3 or Unit 4, or across both Units 3 and 4, and is assessed in Unit 4, Outcome 3. The design, analysis and findings of the investigation are presented in a scientific poster format as outlined in the study design.
In this area of study students explore the expression of the information encoded in a sequence of DNA to form a protein and outline the nature of the genetic code and the proteome. They apply their knowledge to the structure and function of the DNA molecule to examine how molecular tools and techniques can be used to manipulate the molecule for a particular purpose. Students compare gene technologies used to address human and agricultural issues and consider the ethical implications of their use.
the function of CRISPR-Cas9 in bacteria and the application of this function in editing an organism’s genome
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Describe the function of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in bacteria, and outline how scientists have adapted this system for gene editing purposes.
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What is the primary role of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in bacteria?
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