5c-Genetic modification (genetic engineering)

Question 1

What is genetic engineering in medicine?

Answer 1

Genetic engineering in medicine involves altering the DNA of organisms to produce substances that treat diseases or improve human health.

Question 2

How is genetic engineering used to produce insulin?

Answer 2

1. Identify and isolate the insulin gene from human DNA.
2. Cut the insulin gene using restriction enzymes.
3. Insert the gene into a bacterial plasmid using ligase enzymes.
4. Introduce the plasmid into bacteria (e.g., E. coli).
5. Allow the bacteria to reproduce, producing insulin that can be harvested and purified.

Question 3

What are the advantages of using genetically engineered insulin?

Answer 3

Advantages:
- Produces large quantities of insulin quickly.
- Insulin is identical to human insulin, reducing allergic reactions.
- Cost-effective and reliable production.

Question 4

How is genetic engineering used in agriculture?

Answer 4

Genetic engineering is used to improve crop yield, pest resistance, and environmental tolerance.

Question 5

What are examples of genetically modified crops?

Answer 5

1. Bt Corn: Produces a toxin that kills insect pests.
2. Golden Rice: Contains beta-carotene to combat vitamin A deficiency.
3. Herbicide-Resistant Soybeans: Can be sprayed with herbicides without being damaged.

Question 6

What are the advantages of genetically modified crops?

Answer 6

Advantages:
- Higher crop yields and reduced pesticide use.
- Improved nutritional content (e.g., Golden Rice).
- Enhanced resistance to pests and diseases.

Question 7

What is the method for investigating genetic engineering in bacteria?

Answer 7

Insert a gene for antibiotic resistance into bacteria.
Grow bacteria on agar plates with and without antibiotics.

Question 8

What are the results of investigating genetic engineering in bacteria?

Answer 8

Positive Result: Bacteria with the gene survive and grow on antibiotic plates.
Negative Result: Bacteria without the gene die on antibiotic plates.

Question 9

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using genetically engineered insulin?

Answer 9

Disadvantages:
- Potential ethical concerns regarding genetic modification.
- Risk of contamination if not properly controlled.

Question 10

What are the disadvantages of genetically modified crops?

Answer 10

Disadvantages:
- Potential long-term health effects are still unknown.
- Risk of modified genes spreading to wild plants.
- Ethical concerns and consumer resistance.