"William Bateson’s ‘Alleles’: Gene Variants Reshaping Genetics, Medicine Since 1902
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biotechnology & health research· Prelims·
Why in news
The historical significance of William Bateson's 1902 concept of 'Alleles' is highlighted as a foundational principle for modern genetic medicine and agricultural breeding.
Background
William Bateson introduced the term 'Alleles' in 1902 to describe alternative forms of the same gene. Alleles occupy the same position on a chromosome and determine variations in inherited traits across species.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TAlleles: Alternative forms of a gene occupying the same locus on a chromosome.
- S&TWilliam Bateson: British-Australian botanist who coined the term 'Alleles' in 1902.
- FactApplications of Allele analysis include diagnosing genetic disorders, forensic identification, and crop improvement.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how the understanding of allelic variation has revolutionized modern precision medicine and agricultural biotechnology in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Diagnostic precision: Identification of specific pathogenic alleles for targeted gene therapies and personalized medicine.
- Agricultural resilience: Selection of favorable alleles to develop climate-resilient and high-yielding crop varieties.
- Forensic reliability: Utilization of allele frequency data to enhance the accuracy of DNA profiling in criminal investigations.
Keywords: Genotype · Phenotypic variation · Locus · Precision medicine · Genetic markers
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