D1.3.8 (HL)—Gene knockout
Gene knockout makes a target gene non-functional so researchers can infer gene function from the resulting phenotype in model organisms.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2025
- Objective
- D1.3.8
- Level
- HL
Exam analysis
Chance of appearing2%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceNovember 2025
Most common paperPaper1A
Typical marks1
Recent exam appearances
November 2025Paper1A ["HL"] · TZ311[ 1 ]D1.3.8 (HL)—Gene knockout
May 2025Paper1A ["HL"] · TZ211[ 1 ]D1.3.8 (HL)—Gene knockout
Practice this objective
Coverage 2025–2025 · Updated 16 Jul 2026
Concept essentials
- Gene knockout deliberately makes a specific gene inoperative.
- The phenotype of a knockout organism helps reveal gene function.
- Knockout models can be used to study disease processes.
- A p53 knockout mouse can support cancer research involving tumour growth or treatment testing.