DNA Basics
What molecule contains instructions for making proteins?
DNA
What enzyme helps break down lactose in milk?
Lactase
What type of DNA does not code for proteins?
Non-Coding DNA
What condition occurs when someone cannot digest lactose well?
Lactose intolerance
Which chromosome contains the lactase gene?
Chromosome 2
What are sections of DNA that code for proteins called?
Genes
What type of molecule are enzymes?
Proteins
Non-coding DNA can turn genes on or off. What is this called?
Gene Regulation
What usually happens to lactase production as mammals age?
It decreases or stops
Chromosome 2 is the ______ largest chromosome in humans.
Second
What four letters represent the bases of DNA?
A, T, C, G
What sugar found in milk does lactase break down?
Lactose
Scientists used to call non-coding DNA what term?
Junk DNA
What term describes adults who can still digest lactose?
Lactase persistence
Chromosome 2 contains about how many base pairs?
More than 242 million
What percentage of DNA codes for proteins?
1%
Why do babies produce lactase?
To digest their mother’s milk
True or False: Non-coding DNA has important functions.
True
What type of DNA mutation allows lactase to stay active in adults?
A mutation in non-coding DNA
What are chromosomes made of?
DNA
What is the structure of DNA often called because of its twisted shape?
Double Helix
What happens if the body doesn’t produce enough lactase?
Lactose Intolerance
What can happen to a gene if non-coding DNA regulates it?
It can be turned on, turned off, or slowed down
What supplement can help lactose intolerant people digest dairy?
Lactase Pills
What is the name of the gene that produces lactase?
LCT Gene