Reverse genetics

Reverse genetics is a method used in molecular biology to help understand the function of genes by disrupting them through engineered mutations. The term "reverse genetics" is used to highlight the reverse direction to classical genetics methodology.

Overview

Classical genetics traditionally uses the phenotype to determine the genotype. In contrast, reverse genetics starts with the genotype before determining the phenotype. This method allows scientists to understand the role of specific genes in an organism's phenotype.

Methodology

The process of reverse genetics involves creating a mutation in a known gene to disrupt its function, which can then be compared to the normal phenotype. This is often achieved through techniques such as RNA interference (RNAi), CRISPR-Cas9, and homologous recombination.

RNA interference

RNA interference is a biological process where RNA molecules inhibit gene expression. This method is often used in reverse genetics to "knock down" a gene and observe the resulting phenotype.

CRISPR-Cas9

CRISPR-Cas9 is a revolutionary gene-editing system that allows scientists to edit parts of the genome by removing, adding, or altering sections of the DNA sequence. It is currently the simplest and most versatile tool for genetic manipulation, making it a popular choice in reverse genetics.

Homologous recombination

Homologous recombination is a type of genetic recombination where nucleotide sequences are exchanged between two similar or identical strands of DNA. It is used in reverse genetics to replace a normal gene with a mutated one.

Applications

Reverse genetics has a wide range of applications in various fields such as genetics, medicine, and agriculture. It is particularly useful in studying diseases, as it allows scientists to identify the specific genes associated with a disease and understand their function.

See also

• Forward genetics
• Genetic engineering
• Gene knockout