genetic engineering

• What is genetic engineering?

  The deliberate modification of an organism's DNA
• What is a gene?

  A short length of DNA coding for a characteristic
• What is a plasmid?

  A small circular extra loop of DNA in bacteria
• Why are bacteria often used in genetic engineering?

  Bacterial DNA is easily manipulated
• What are the advantages of using bacteria in genetic engineering?

  • Produce identical offspring with new genes
  • Rapid reproduction for large protein amounts
• What is used to cut out the desired gene?

  The same restriction enzyme that cuts DNA
• What are sticky ends?

  A short section of exposed DNA bases
• How is the desired gene inserted into a plasmid?

  • The plasmid is cut with a restriction enzyme
  • The extracted gene is inserted into the plasmid
  • They attach via complementary bases
• Describe the process of making human insulin using genetic engineering.

  1. Cut plasmid with restriction enzyme
  2. Insert insulin gene into plasmid
  3. Introduce plasmid into bacteria
  4. Bacteria reproduce in a fermenter
  5. Produce large amounts of human insulin
• What is a fermenter?

  A stainless steel vat for bacterial reproduction
• What is downstreaming?

  The extraction and purification of products
• Why is downstreaming necessary?

  To produce pure insulin for diabetes treatment
• Before genetic engineering, how was insulin obtained?

  From the pancreas of domestic animals
• What are the advantages of using genetically engineered insulin?

  • No risk of animal disease transfer
  • No ethical issues with animal use
  • Always a plentiful supply
  • Structurally identical to human insulin
• What are the general advantages of producing protein products via genetic engineering?

  • Quicker production times
  • Cheaper to produce
  • Greater quantities available