Genetic Engineering

• What is genetic engineering?

  It is the modification of an organism's genome by transferring genes from one organism to another.
• How is genetic engineering used in medicine?

  It is used to produce human insulin for people with type 1 diabetes.
• How is genetic engineering used in agriculture?

  It is used to create genetically modified (GM) crops that yield more and resist diseases.
• What is a good example of genetic engineering in medicine?

  Producing human insulin using genetically modified bacteria.
• Why do people with type 1 diabetes need insulin injections?

  Because they cannot produce their own insulin.
• What advantages do GM crops have over normal crops?

  GM crops generally produce a greater yield and can resist diseases and pests.
• What is a concern regarding GM crops?

  They may be harmful to insects or wildflowers.
• What is gene therapy?

  It is the exploration of genetic modification to treat inherited disorders in humans.
• What is a potential risk of modifying a gene?

  The potential effects on other genes are unknown.
• What are the main steps in genetic engineering?

  1. Identify the gene to transfer.
  2. Use enzymes to isolate the gene.
  3. Transfer the gene into a plasmid or virus (vectors).
  4. Transfer the desired gene into the target organism's cells.
  5. Ensure the gene is transferred at an early developmental stage.
• What is a plasmid?

  A plasmid is a small circle of DNA used to transfer genes between organisms.
• Why are plasmids useful in genetic engineering?

  They facilitate the transfer of DNA from one organism to another.
• What is the role of vectors in genetic engineering?

  Vectors, like plasmids or viruses, transfer DNA from one organism to another.
• At what stage is the gene transferred into an organism?

  At an early stage in the organism's development.
• Why is it important to transfer the gene at an early stage?

  To ensure that all cells receive the transferred gene.
• What is the purpose of genetic engineering in agriculture?

  • To produce genetically modified (GM) crops
  • To increase crop yield
  • To create disease-resistant crops
  • To produce larger or better-quality foods
• What are the potential health concerns regarding GM crops?

  • Possible harm to insects and wildflowers
  • Need for more research on health effects