Genetic Engineering

• Genetic engineering

  The transfer of a gene responsible for a desirable characteristic from one organism's genome into another organism
• Genetic engineering process

  1. Isolate useful gene

  2. Insert into vector

  3. Introduce vector to target organism

  4. Insert gene into cell(s)
• Applications of genetic engineering

  • Bacteria producing human insulin
  • GM crops improving fruit size and quality
  • Sheep producing drugs in milk
  • Gene therapy for inherited diseases
• Pros of GM crops

  • Increased yield
  • Nutrient enrichment
  • Already being grown without problems
• Cons of GM crops

  • Affect on wild flowers and insects
  • Concerns about human health
  • Transplanted genes may escape into the environment