Genetic variants in non-coding DNA can influence phenotype
I can explain how a genetic variant in a non-coding part of the genome can influence an organism’s phenotype.
Genetic variants in non-coding DNA can influence phenotype
I can explain how a genetic variant in a non-coding part of the genome can influence an organism’s phenotype.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- When a cell copies a gene to make mRNA (the instructions to make a protein), this is called gene expression.
- Only around 1-2% of the genome is genes; the rest contains code that controls gene expression.
- A genetic variant in a non-gene (so called "non-coding") section of the genome can affect gene expression.
- Non-coding DNA affects gene expression because it is where RNA polymerase starts copying the gene for protein synthesis.
- Genetic variants in non-coding DNA can impact gene expression and therefore an organism’s phenotype.
Keywords
Gene - A section of DNA that holds the genetic code for a protein.
Protein - A chemical substance whose structure is coded for by the genetic code in genes.
Gene expression - The process in which genes are copied during the first step in protein synthesis.
Genetic variant - Produced when a mutation causes a change in the genetic sequence of a gene or non-coding section of DNA.
Phenotype - The physical characteristics of an organism.
Common misconception
All DNA is genes that code for proteins; and that our characteristics are only affected by our genes
Most of the DNA is non-coding (non-genes), and controls when genes are expressed (i.e. when proteins are made). Changes (genetic variants) in non-coding DNA can affect characteristics (phenotype) as they control whether a gene is expressed or not.
To help you plan your year 10 biology lesson on: Genetic variants in non-coding DNA can influence phenotype, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 biology lesson on: Genetic variants in non-coding DNA can influence phenotype, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Something capable of causing a change in the genetic code.
A change in the genetic code.
The process of copying a gene and making mRNA.
Using the genetic code of mRNA to make a polypeptide.
The number of types of nucleotide base in DNA.
The number of nucleic acid strands in a molecule of DNA.
The number of nucleic acid strands in a molecule of mRNA.
The number of nucleotide bases in a triplet code.
Exit quiz
6 Questions
Cells constantly grow and divide leading to tumour formation.
Transcription is prevented and the protein can’t be produced.
Gene remains inactive and protein is not produced.