Genetic Engineering Flashcards
What is genetic engineering?
transferring a gene responsible for a desirable characteristic from one organism’s genome into another organism, so that it also has the desired characteristic.
What is a vector in genetic engineering, and what are two common types?
-A vector is a carrier used to transfer the gene.
-this can be in the form of viruses and bacterial plasmids.
-The useful gene is inserted into the target organism’s cells when the vector is introduced to it.
Give examples of applications of genetic engineering in bacteria, crops, and animalsand gene therapy
1)Bacteria have been genetically modified to produce human insulin that can be used to treat diabetes.
2)Genetically modified (GM) crops have had their genes modified, e.g. to improve the size and quality of their fruit, or make them resistant to disease, insects and herbicides (chemicals used to kill weeds).
3)Sheep have been genetically engineered to produce substances, like drugs, in their milk that can be used to treat human diseases.
4)Scientists are researching genetic modification treatments for inherited diseases caused by faulty genes e.g. by inserting working genes into people with the disease. This is called gene therapy.
When is the transfer of a gene often carried out in organisms?
when the organism is at an early stage of development, such as during egg or embryo development
What concerns are associated with the cultivation of GM crops?
1)Some people say that growing GM crops will affect the number of wild flowers (and so the population of insects) that live in and around the crops — reducing farmland biodiversity.
2) Not everyone is convinced that GM crops are safe and some people are concerned that we might not fully understand the effects of eating them on human health or future consequences e.g. people are worried they may develop allergies to the food
3)A big concern is that transplanted genes may get out into the natural environment. For example, the herbicide resistance gene may be picked up by weeds, creating a new ‘superweed” variety.
What are some potential benefits of GM crops?
-GM crops can increase yield and address nutrient deficiencies in diets for people living in developing countries
-An example is ‘golden rice,’ engineered to contain beta-carotene to address blindness caused by a deficiency of it
