Explain how genes control our traits with a specific example. Your explanation should contain the following
words: transcription, translation, gene, mRNA, and protein. You should include the name of a specific gene and
a specific protein, and try explain how the role of that particular protein relates to the trait.
Example: The MC1R gene codes for the pigment protein melanin, which is responsible for the traits of brown
eyes, skin and hair. The MC1R gene is first transcribed into mRNA, then translated into the melanin protein. If
a mutation occurs in the MC1R gene, the result may be no melanin proteins produced, and a condition called
albinism. Please find another example of a specific gene and corresponding protein (not melanin Part II:
Personal DNA Analysis
Have any of you had your DNA tested for ancestry and/or medical information with kits from companies like
Ancestry, 23andMe, MyHeritage or others? If so, what was your experience?
If you have not, have you considered doing so? What are some factors that may be preventing people from
getting their DNA tested with these kits? What are some concerns? Alternatively, what are some of the benefits
of DNA testing? (you don’t have to discuss both concerns and benefits, one or the other is fine).
Recommended overview of the Central Dogma: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_WRFw8KQk4