Genetic engineering

• What does genetic engineering involve?

  Modifying an organism's genome
• What do restriction enzymes do?

  They cut DNA at specific sequences
• What are the ends left after DNA is cut by restriction enzymes called?

  Sticky ends
• What is the role of ligase enzymes in genetic engineering?

  To join two pieces of DNA together
• What is recombinant DNA?

  Two different bits of DNA stuck together
• What is a vector in genetic engineering?

  A tool to transfer DNA into a cell
• What are the two types of vectors mentioned?

  Plasmids and viruses
• What are plasmids?

  Small, circular molecules of DNA
• How do viruses function as vectors?

  They insert DNA into the organisms they infect
• What are the steps involved in genetic engineering?

  1. Cut the DNA to insert using restriction enzymes.
  2. Cut the vector DNA open with the same enzyme.
  3. Mix vector DNA and inserted DNA with ligase.
  4. Join DNA pieces to create recombinant DNA.
  5. Insert recombinant DNA into other cells.
  6. Cells produce the desired protein.
• What is an example of a gene that can be inserted into bacteria?

  The gene for human insulin
• How can genetically modified bacteria be used in medicine?

  To produce human insulin for diabetes
• How can genetic engineering benefit agriculture?

  By making crops resistant to herbicides
• What is a potential benefit of herbicide-resistant crops?

  Farmers can kill weeds without harming crops
• What proteins have been transferred into sheep and cows?

  Human antibodies for therapy
• What is a concern regarding genetically modified animals?

  Predicting the effects of genome modification
• What is a potential risk of genetically modified crops?

  Translocated genes may enter the environment
• What could happen if a herbicide resistance gene is transferred to weeds?

  Creation of a new 'superweed' variety
• How might genetically modified crops affect food chains?

  They could adversely affect food chains
• What is rennin?

  An enzyme used to make cheese
• How could a bacterial cell be genetically engineered to produce rennin?

  By inserting the rennin gene into bacteria
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of GMOs in agriculture?

  Advantages:

  • Increased crop yield
  • Easier farming practices
  • Resistance to herbicides

  
  

  Disadvantages:

  • Health risks
  • Potential for superweeds
  • Environmental impact
• What are the potential benefits of genetic engineering in medicine?

  • Production of human proteins (e.g., insulin)
  • Development of gene therapies
  • Creation of organs for transplantation
• What are the concerns regarding genetic engineering?

  • Unpredictable effects on organisms
  • Survival rates of modified embryos
  • Environmental risks from modified crops