Non-coding DNA essay

Question 1

2 ways of determining genome functionality

Answer 1

sequence conservation
biological activity (e.g. ENCODE)

Question 2

example of an epigenetic use of a TE

Answer 2

regulation of a stress response gene in Arabadopsis, as it helps produce regulatory siRNAs which reduce the stress response. UBP1b

Question 3

example of a microsatellite which appears functional

Answer 3

microsatellite in regulatory region of HO-1, seems to modulate cancer risk by preventing downreg. of this antioxidant gene

Question 4

pseudogene which may have functionality

Answer 4

PTENP1, binds to miRNAs and prevents them from acting- again helps regulate cancer risk by stopping inactivation of tumour suppressors