4-6-2 Biotechnology in Human History Flashcards
Before genetic engineering, what technique have people employed to develop stocks or strains of domesticated organisms having desired characteristics?
Selective breeding
What are some examples of organisms that have been selectively bred?
Dogs, and even bacteria and fungi. Winemaking uses specific strains of fungus to produce the desired quality of wines.
Genetic engineering, genetic modification (GM), and gene splicing are all terms for what process?
the process of manipulating genes.
What is the aim of genetic engineering?
to introduce new physical or physiological characteristics.
Production of human insulin through the use of modified bacteria is an example of what process?
Genetic engineering
What are the basic steps of genetic engineering?
Step 1 - cutting DNA: DNA containing a gene of interest is isolated from the organism and treated with a restriction enzyme. The vector (a DNA “agent” used to carry the gene of interest) is cut with the same restriction enzyme.
Step 2 - making recombinant DNA: The DNA fragments containing the gene of interest are combined with the DNA fragments from the vector. The DNA fragments are linked into a recombinant DNA molecule with the help of DNA ligase.
Step 3 - Cloning: Vectors carrying the gene of interest are inserted into bacteria, where they replicate.
Step 4 - Screening and protein production: Cells that have received the particular gene of interest are separated from cells that have not. The cells containing the gene of interest can then transcribe and translate the gene to make the protein of interest.
Some examples of genetically engineered medicines are …
Erythropoetin, for treating anemia
Growth factors, for treating burns and ulcers
Human growth hormone, for treating growth defects
Insulin, for treating diabetes
Interferons, for treating viral infection and cancer
Taxol, for treating ovarian cancer
