3.5 Genetic modification and biotechnology Flashcards
What is the purpose of gel electrophoresis in DNA analysis?
Gel electrophoresis is used to separate proteins or fragments of DNA according to their size, allowing for the analysis of DNA samples
How does PCR amplify DNA?
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) amplifies small amounts of DNA by making billions of copies of a specific DNA segment, allowing for detailed analysis from minimal samples
What is DNA profiling based on?
DNA profiling involves the comparison of DNA sequences to identify genetic differences between individuals, useful in forensics and paternity testing.
How do DNA profiles help in forensic investigations?
DNA profiles help in forensic investigations by matching DNA samples from a crime scene to potential suspects or victims, providing conclusive evidence due to the unique nature of DNA.
How can DNA profiling determine paternity?
Paternity can be determined by matching DNA fragments in the child’s profile to the mother and potential father, where each of the child’s DNA fragments must map to one of the parents.
What are the applications of DNA profiling?
DNA profiling is used in paternity tests to confirm biological relationships and in forensic investigations to identify individuals involved in criminal activities.
How is genetic modification achieved through gene transfer?
Genetic modification is carried out by transferring genes between species, enabling the creation of GMOs with desirable traits from other organisms.
How do plasmids facilitate gene transfer to bacteria?
Gene transfer to bacteria using plasmids involves cutting DNA with restriction endonucleases and then sealing the inserted gene into the plasmid with DNA ligase, creating recombinant DNA.
What factors are considered in assessing GM crops?
The assessment involves analyzing potential risks to the environment and health, against the benefits like increased yield and resistance to pests.
What impact do Bt crops have on monarch butterflies?
Initial studies suggested Bt crops could harm monarch larvae, but further research showed minimal risk under natural conditions, although factors like habitat loss contribute to their decline
What defines a clone?
Clones are groups of genetically identical organisms that have originated from a single original parent cell, through natural or artificial replication processes.
Do some species naturally clone themselves?
es, many plant species and some animal species have natural methods of cloning, allowing them to reproduce genetically identical offspring without sexual reproduction.
How is embryo-stage animal cloning performed?
Animals can be cloned at the embryo stage by dividing the embryo into multiple cell groups, each of which can develop into a genetically identical organism.
What methods exist for cloning adult animals?
Methods for cloning adult animals involve using differentiated cells to create a new organism that is genetically identical to the donor, such as somatic-cell nuclear transfer.
How are cloned embryos produced by somatic-cell nuclear transfer?
Somatic-cell nuclear transfer involves replacing the nucleus of an egg cell with the nucleus from a somatic (body) cell of the organism to be cloned, leading to the development of an embryo identical to the donor.
