Human blood carries several proteins which are required in the mechanism of blood clotting. One of these proteins, factor VIII, is lacking in individuals with haemophilia.
A team of scientists has genetically engineered goats by introducing a gene allowing them to produce factor VIII in their milk. This milk can then be purified and the proteins can be used to treat haemophiliac patients.
Describe two methods by which the scientists could obtain the human gene coding for the factor VIII protein.
Calculate how many copies of DNA would be produced after a single fragment of DNA has been in the thermal cycler for 1.5 hours. Give your answer in standard form.
Seven skeletons were discovered in a house in Pompeii, three of which were children. It is believed they were inhabitants and workers within the house when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD.
Researchers were able to isolate very small amounts of DNA from these skeletons. The DNA obtained was used in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Genetic fingerprinting was then carried out on this DNA to identify the skeletons.
The image below shows some of the results of the genetic fingerprinting of the three children and four adults.
Explain why the researchers used PCR in their investigation.
