VCE Biology — Unit 3 AOS 1
CRISPR-Cas9 — Flashcards & Quiz
CRISPR-Cas9 is the gene-editing technology that turns VCE Biology Unit 3 gene-expression theory into a real-world story. You need to describe how a guide RNA directs the Cas9 endonuclease to a complementary DNA sequence, where it makes a precise double-stranded cut that the cell then repairs by error-prone NHEJ or template-directed HDR. Be ready to compare CRISPR with older tools, name an application (medical, agricultural, conservation), and discuss the bioethics — VCAA explicitly assesses ethical reasoning around emerging biotechnologies.
Sample Quiz Questions
Q1: CRISPR-Cas9 can only be used to delete genes, not insert or correct them.
Answer: FALSE
CRISPR-Cas9 can delete genes (via NHEJ causing disruption), correct mutations (via HDR using a template), and insert new sequences. It is a versatile gene-editing tool with multiple applications.
Related Concepts
Last updated: March 2026 · 1 quiz questions