strand 8 gene probes

method

the separated strands are cooled in a mixture containing many DNA probes

the DNA contains the mutant allele, a probe will bind to it because of the complementary base sequence

DNA from the patient is separated by heating in to 2 single strands

the DNA is washed clean of any unbound probes

a marker is then attached to the DNA probes

the hybridised DNA will now be fluorescently/radioactively labelled with the dye attached to the probe

multiple copies of our DNA probe are formed using PCR

the dye is detected by shining light (or using a radiograph) onto the fragments causing the dye to fluoresce can be seen using a special microscope

a fragment of DNA is produced that has a sequence of bases that are complementary to the mutant allele being searched for

genetic screening

allows lifestyle changes to be made

allows early diagnosis

detection of mutation of TSG's

allows early treatment

detection of oncogenes

personalised medicine

use genotype to provide advice and healthcare

genes can affect drug efficacy

example 1: some painkillers need a specific enzyme, if a patient has reduced levels of that enzyme until the dosage is adjusted the painkiller will have less effect

example 2: diabetics, vitamin E reduces risk of CVD for some genotypes but increases risk for others, vitamin E supplements could be given to those it reduces the risk for

genetic counselling

a form of social work where patients or relatives at risk of an inherited disorder are advised of the consequences and nature of the disorder, probability of transmitting or developing it and options open to them in management and family planning. used often for potential parents.