B3g - New Genes For Old Flashcards
1
Q
What are the disadvantages of selective breeding?
A
It may lead to inbreeding (accumulation of harmful recessive characteristics and reduction of variations) it can also cause health problems within the species
2
Q
What are the advantages of genetic engineering?
A
Organisms with desired features are produced rapidly
3
Q
What are the risks of genetic engineering?
A
Inserted genes may have unexpected harmful effects
4
Q
What are examples of genetic engineering?
A
- taking the genes from carrots that control beta-carotene from rice into vitamin a (solving the problem of parts of the world relying on rice but lacking vitamin a)
- the production of insulin by genetically engineered bacteria
- transferring resistance to herbicides, frost damage or disease to crop plants
5
Q
What are the principles of genetic engineering?
A
- selection of desired characteristics
- isolation of genes responsible
- insertion of the genes into other organisms
- replication of these organisms
6
Q
What is gene therapy?
A
Changing a persons genes in an attempt to cure disorders
7
Q
What is gene therapy
A
It could invoke body cells or gametes which is controversial
