Genetic engineering

• Vectors can be used to insert DNA into other organisms.
• Restriction enzymes cut the section of DNA (you want to insert) out.
• 1. The DNA you want to insert is cut out by restriction enzymes
  2. The plasmid is then cut open by the same restriction enzymes
  3. This creates sticky ends on the DNA
  4. The plasmid and DNA you are inserting are then mixed together with ligase enzymes
  5. The ligase enzymes join the sticky ends of the 2 pieces of DNA together
  6. Plasmid vectors that now contain the DNA are inserted into other cells
  7. The individuals that have successfully received the desired gene are selected.
• Antibiotic resistant markers are inserted into the vector to show which cells have received the new DNA.

  The host cell is then grown on a special plate containing antibiotics. Only bacteria containing the resistant markers will be able to survive and reproduce.
• A transgenic organism is one that has been genetically modified.
• Genetic engineering:

  Pros:

  • Crops can be modified to improve crop yields
  • Crops can become resistant to pests (eg. insert a toxin)
  • Can combat certain deficiency diseases

  Cons:

  • Transplanted genes may get out into the environment
  • Transgenic crops may affect the food chain, or even human health
  • Unethical
  • Don't know the long term effects
  • Reduces biodiversity