Genetic engineering

• What is the basic idea of genetic engineering?

  Transferring genes to modify organisms
• What is a genetically modified organism (GMO)?

  An organism with a modified genome
• Can genes from different species be used in genetic engineering?

  Yes, genes from different species can be used
• How have sheep been genetically engineered?

  To produce drugs in their milk
• What human hormone have bacteria been engineered to produce?

  Insulin
• What are some benefits of genetically modified crops?

  Improved size, quality, and resistance
• What is gene therapy aimed at treating?

  Inherited disorders due to faulty genes
• Why is gene therapy difficult to implement?

  It requires transferring genes to every cell
• What is a potential solution for gene therapy challenges?

  Transfer genes at early developmental stages
• What are the pros and cons of genetically modified crops?

  Pros:

  • Desirable characteristics (e.g., disease resistance)
  • Increased food production for less cost
  • Nutrient enhancement (e.g., golden rice)

  
  

  Cons:

  • Uncertainty about health effects
  • Potential ecological impact
  • Risk of out-competing local plants
• What is the first step in transferring a gene?

  Find and cut the desired gene
• What is a vector in genetic engineering?

  A carrier for the gene, like a virus
• What is a bacterial plasmid?

  A small loop of DNA in bacteria
• What happens after introducing the vector to the target organism?

  The organism's cells take up the vector
• What do the organism's cells produce after taking up the vector?

  The protein coded by the inserted gene
• What is the main goal of genetic engineering?

  To modify organisms for desirable traits