Genetic engineering

• Genetic engineering- is the transfer of DNA from one cell to another using biotechnology
• Bacterial cells are used in genetic engineering because:

  • they do not have a nucleus
  • chromosome present as a loop in the cytoplasm
  • contains circular plasmids that contain genetic material
  • can reproduce faster than other cells
• Stages of genetic engineering

  1. identification of required gene from human chromosome and plasmid from bacterial cell
  2. extract gene and plasmid using enzymes, using the enzyme to cut open the plasmid
  3. insert gene to plasmid and seal it with enzymes
  4. insert genetically modified plasmid into host bacterial cell
  5. bacterial cell will reproduce and express gene of interest
• Products of genetic engineering

  • insulin
  • human growth hormone
  • Factor VIII