genetic engineering

• What is the basic idea of genetic engineering?

  Transfer genes from one organism to another
• What do we call an organism that has been modified genetically?

  Genetically modified organism (GM)
• 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 is one application of genetically engineered bacteria?

  Producing human insulin for diabetes
• What are genetically modified crops used for?

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

  Inherited disorders due to faulty genes
• What is a challenge in gene therapy?

  Transferring the gene into every cell
• How can gene transfer be more effective?

  By transferring genes at early development stages
• What are the pros and cons of genetically modified crops?

  Pros:

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

  
  

  Cons:

  • Uncertainty about health effects
  • Potential ecological impact if they escape
• What is golden rice known for?

  Containing beta-carotene for vision protection
• What is a concern regarding GM crops and health?

  Uncertainty about their health effects
• What is a potential ecological concern with GM crops?

  They might out-compete local plants
• What is the first step in transferring a gene?

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

  A carrier for the gene, like a virus
• What is the purpose of introducing a vector to an organism?

  To transfer the useful gene into its cells
• What do the cells of the organism do after taking up the vector?

  They start producing the protein coded by the gene
• What is the end goal of genetic engineering?

  To modify organisms for beneficial traits