Gene Mutations

What Are Genes?

Genes are made up of DNA and are involved in making proteins in the
body. Proteins function as antibodies that protect the body and destroy
bacteria and viruses. Proteins also act as a messenger to carry out
signals through body processes.
Genes vary in size and number but is is estimated that humans have
around 20,000 of them. Each person has two copies of each gene- one
from each parent. Genes can determine the different characteristics or
traits of an organism. (Ex. hair or eye color)

What Are Mutated Genes?

Gene mutations are a permanent change in a DNA sequence.
Hereditary mutations are found in every single cell in the body and are
there when born.
Acquired mutations occur in some point of a persons life and can affect
only certain cells ( the vampire infestation is an acquired mutation
because only bats in a certain region were infected.)

Examples of Mutations
1. Mutations that impact protein
sequence Ex. Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder in
which the body produces an abnormal
type of oxygen carrying substances in red
blood cells. It has high rates in places
such as africa where Malaria is common.

2. Mutations in DNA repair

genes Ex. Albinism
Albinism is a
disorder
characterized by
complete
absence of
pigment in the
skin. It is
inherited by a
recessive gene
allele.
This mutation causes
vision problems.

Gene Therapy
Treatment for gene mutations is limited; However, Gene therapy works
by inserting a gene directly into a persons cell. This can be done by:
1.Replacing a mutated gene that causes disease with a healthy copy of
the gene.
2. Inactivating a mutated gene that is functioning improperly.
3. Introducing a new gene into the body to help fight a disease

Surviving
To survive the vampire infestation I will use my knowledge of genes and
mutations to locate the mutated P53 and MDM2 genes in the bats which
are repairing damaged cells and allowing and use gene therapy to treat
victims and rid the infection.