Genetic Engineering

Question 1

What is genetic engineering?

Answer 1

The alteration of genes (DNA)

It allows genes from different species to be combined.

Question 2

What is another name for genetic engineering?

Answer 2

Recombinant DNA technology

This term highlights the process of combining DNA from different sources.

Question 3

What are genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?

Answer 3

Living things that have had their DNA altered artificially

This alteration is done through genetic engineering techniques.

Question 4

What are transgenic organisms?

Answer 4

Organisms that contain genes from another species

This is a specific type of GMO.

Question 5

What is the first requirement to form recombinant DNA?

Answer 5

The target gene, which will be the source of the DNA

This gene is the focus of the genetic engineering process.

Question 6

What is a cloning vector?

Answer 6

A piece of DNA that can accept the target gene and replicate

The most common cloning vector is a plasmid.

Question 7

What role do restriction enzymes play in genetic engineering?

Answer 7

They cut DNA at specific places

They also ensure that the cut ends can combine with each other.

Question 8

What is the role of DNA ligase in the process of genetic engineering?

Answer 8

To cause the target gene to join with the DNA of the cloning vector

This is essential for forming recombinant DNA.

Question 9

What is the most common cloning vector used in genetic engineering?

Answer 9

A plasmid

This is a small circle of DNA found in bacteria.

Question 10

List the four main steps in the process of genetic engineering.

Answer 10

• Isolation
• Cutting
• Ligation
• Expression

These steps outline the procedure for altering DNA.

Question 11

What happens during the isolation step of genetic engineering?

Answer 11

DNA is removed from the sample

This is the first step in the genetic engineering process.

Question 12

What occurs during the cutting step of genetic engineering?

Answer 12

Restriction enzymes cut DNA sections

This allows for specific manipulation of the DNA.

Question 13

What happens during the ligation step of genetic engineering?

Answer 13

DNA ligase is used to combine the necessary sections of DNA together

This is crucial for forming recombinant DNA.

Question 14

What is the expression step in genetic engineering?

Answer 14

The altered DNA is activated and used to make a product

This step results in the desired outcome of genetic engineering.

Question 15

What is one application of genetic engineering in plants?

Answer 15

Golden rice can be used for vitamin A deficiency

This application addresses nutritional deficiencies.

Question 16

What is one application of genetic engineering in animals?

Answer 16

The gene for blood clotting is inserted into sheep

This allows sheep to produce necessary clotting protein in their milk.

Question 17

What is one application of genetic engineering in micro-organisms?

Answer 17

Humulin can be produced in bacteria and used as insulin for diabetics

This demonstrates the medical applications of genetic engineering.

Question 18

True or False: There are ethical issues surrounding genetic engineering.

Answer 18

True

Concerns include GMOs used as food sources and potential harm to animals.

Question 19

What worries do people have about genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?

Answer 19

• Use as a food source
• Genetic modification of humans
• Harm to animals during genetic modification

These concerns reflect societal and ethical considerations.