GENETIC ENGINEERING

• What is genetic engineering?

  It is a process that modifies the genome of an organism to introduce desirable characteristics.
• What is the purpose of genetic engineering?

  To transfer a gene from one organism's genome into another to introduce a desirable characteristic.
• What is a genetically modified organism (GMO)?

  An organism that has had a gene transferred into its genome.
• What are some uses of genetic engineering?

  • Production of human insulin by genetically modified bacteria.
  • Modification of GM crops for improved size, quality, and resistance to diseases.
  • Engineering sheep and cows to produce useful proteins in their milk.
• What are the main stages of genetic engineering?

  1. Cut DNA with restriction enzymes to create sticky ends.
  2. Cut open vector DNA using the same restriction enzyme.
  3. Join vector DNA and inserted DNA with ligase to create recombinant DNA.
  4. Insert recombinant DNA into host cells.
  5. Host cells use the inserted gene to produce the desired protein.
• What is the role of restriction enzymes in genetic engineering?

  They cut DNA at specific sequences to create sticky ends.
• What are sticky ends in DNA?

  They are unpaired bases left after cutting DNA with restriction enzymes.
• What is a vector in genetic engineering?

  A vector is a tool used to transfer DNA into a cell, such as a plasmid or virus.
• How does ligase function in genetic engineering?

  Ligase joins the sticky ends of DNA to produce recombinant DNA.
• What happens after recombinant DNA is inserted into host cells?

  The cells can use the inserted gene to produce the protein it codes for.
• What is an example of genetic engineering in medicine?

  Genetically modified bacteria producing human insulin for diabetes treatment.
• What are the benefits of genetic engineering in agriculture and medicine?

  Benefits in agriculture:

  • Herbicide-resistant crops increase yield.

  Benefits in medicine:

  • Easier and cheaper production of human insulin.
• What are some ethical concerns regarding genetic engineering of animals?

  It is hard to predict the effects of genome modification, and many GM embryos do not survive.
• What are practical concerns about genetically modified crops?

  Transplanted genes may escape into the environment, creating superweeds or affecting food chains.
• What was previously used to treat diabetes before genetically engineered insulin?

  Insulin from pigs and cows.
• Why might some people have an adverse reaction to animal insulin?

  Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to animal proteins.