Biotechnology and Genetic Modification Flashcards
What is biotechnology?
Use of biological processes, organisms, or systems to produce products or solve problems.
Examples include production of antibiotics like penicillin, use of yeast in bread and alcohol production, and genetically engineered organisms for medicine and agriculture.
Define fermentation.
Anaerobic respiration of microorganisms to produce useful substances.
Yeast converts sugars into ethanol and carbon dioxide, used in baking and brewing.
What are the key stages of genetic engineering?
- Identify and isolate the desired gene.
- Cut the gene using restriction enzymes.
- Insert the gene into a vector.
- Introduce the vector into the host cell.
- Allow the host to express the gene and produce the desired protein.
What are restriction enzymes?
Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences.
What role does DNA ligase play in genetic engineering?
Joins DNA fragments to form recombinant DNA.
What is a vector in genetic engineering?
Transport the gene into a host organism (e.g., plasmids).
Name two medical applications of genetic modification.
- Production of human insulin using genetically modified bacteria.
- Development of vaccines.
List three agricultural applications of genetic modification.
- Creation of pest-resistant crops (e.g., Bt cotton).
- Drought-tolerant and high-yield varieties.
- Golden rice enriched with Vitamin A.
What are the benefits of biotechnology?
- Enhanced crop yield and quality.
- Resistance to pests and diseases.
- Improved food security in challenging climates.
- Production of medicinal products at lower costs.
What are some risks associated with biotechnology?
- Crossbreeding with wild species (gene escape).
- Development of superweeds or resistant pests.
- Unintended health effects (allergic reactions).
Identify two ethical concerns related to genetic modification.
- ‘Playing God’ by modifying organisms.
- Animal welfare issues in genetic experiments.
Why are microorganisms used in biotechnology?
- Rapid reproduction and growth.
- Ability to grow in large-scale bioreactors.
- Easy to genetically modify.
- Produce a wide range of products, including antibiotics, enzymes, and biofuels.
What is batch fermentation?
Microorganisms grow in a closed system with limited nutrients; products are harvested after a set period.
Describe continuous fermentation.
Nutrients are constantly supplied, and products are continuously removed.
Give examples of genetically modified (GM) crops.
- Golden rice.
- Pest-resistant maize.
- Herbicide-tolerant soybeans.
What are the advantages of genetically modified crops?
- Increased productivity and reduced pesticide use.
- Improved nutritional value (e.g., Golden rice with Vitamin A).
What concerns are associated with genetically modified crops?
Environmental impact and public health risks.
