B6- Genetic Engineering

Question 1

What is genetic engineering?

Answer 1

Genetic engineering transfers genes between organisms

This process allows for the modification of organisms by inserting specific genes to achieve desired traits.

Question 2

What is a vector in the context of genetic engineering?

Answer 2

A vector is a method used to introduce a useful gene into a target organism’s cells

Vectors can be plasmids, viruses, or other means of gene delivery.

Question 3

Give an example of a genetically modified organism used in medicine.

Answer 3

Bacteria producing human insulin

This genetically modified bacteria is used to treat diabetes.

Question 4

What are GM crops modified for?

Answer 4

To improve size and quality of fruit and to make them resistant to disease, insects, and herbicides

These modifications help enhance agricultural efficiency and yield.

Question 5

What is gene therapy?

Answer 5

Gene therapy involves inserting working genes into people with inherited diseases

This method aims to treat or cure genetic disorders by correcting faulty genes.

Question 6

When is gene transfer often carried out in an organism’s development?

Answer 6

When the organism is at an early stage of development, such as in an egg or embryo

This allows the organism to develop with the new characteristics from the inserted gene.

Question 7

True or False: Genetic engineering is universally accepted without concerns.

Answer 7

False

There are various concerns regarding the long-term effects and ethical implications of genetic engineering.

Question 8

List some concerns about GM crops.

Answer 8

• Affecting the number of wildflowers and insects
• Potential health risks for humans
• Risk of transplanted genes creating ‘superweeds’

These concerns highlight the ecological and health implications of genetically modified organisms.

Question 9

What is a potential benefit of GM crops for developing nations?

Answer 9

GM crops can be engineered to contain missing nutrients

For example, ‘golden rice’ contains beta-carotene, which helps prevent blindness.

Question 10

Fill in the blank: GM crops can increase _______ by enhancing desirable traits.

Answer 10

yield

Increased yield means more food can be produced from the same amount of land.

Question 11

What is a ‘superweed’?

Answer 11

A weed that has acquired herbicide resistance through gene transfer

This can result in difficult-to-control weed populations in agricultural settings.