Genetic engineering

Question 1

What is a transgenic organism?

Answer 1

Organisms which have received genes from another organism (different species)

Question 2

What is genetic modification?

Answer 2

The transfer of a gene or section of DNA from one organism into the DNA of another organism.

Question 3

Explain how genetically modified bacteria (used to produced insulin) are produced

Answer 3

Restriction enzyme is used to cut gene (that codes for human production of insulin)
Same restriction enzyme is used to cut bacterial plasmid
To produce complementary pairings
Ligase enzyme used to insert gene into plasmid
Plasmid/vector inserted into bacterium
Bacterium clones the plasmid

Question 4

What is recombinant DNA?

Answer 4

DNA created from joining the genetic material of two or more different organisms

Question 5

What do viruses and plasmids act as for genetic engineering?

Answer 5

Vectors - they take up recombinant DNA and insert it into other cells

Question 6

Describe the conditions needed in an industrial fermenter for manufacturing insulin

Answer 6

Sterilised fermenter - prevents competition from other bacteria
Oxygen - aerobic respiration
Stirring mixture - ensures nutrients are spread evenly, prevents settling
Monitoring temp and using cooling jacket if needed - optimum temp for enzymes
Nutrient medium - provides food for bacteria for respiration

Question 7

What are the advantages of GM crops?

Answer 7

More precise method than selective breeding
Higher crop yield
Less pesticide use so less pollution
Disease resistant/pest resistant

Question 8

What are the disadvantages of GM crops?

Answer 8

Long term effects are unknown
May affect food chains
Reduces variation