Genetic Engineering Flashcards
Suggest which humans could be described as ‘natural clones’.
Identical twins are natural clones
How is genetic information passed fro parents to offspring?
The nucleus or gamete cells contains the genetic material which is passed from parent to offspring
Plant clones are genetically identical. Why so some clones look different?
Clones have the same genetic material but during development the organism may be changed due to environmental factors e.g. amount of light or nutrients
What is meant by a ‘host’ animal?
The host animal is the one in which a transplanted embryo develops
What is done to the fused cell to start off the process of cell division in adult cell cloning?
An electric shock is applied to the cell
Why are you similar to both your parents, but not identical to either of them?
Offspring inherit genes from both parents. Different combinations of genes lead to the appearance of different physical characteristics
In what way are embryo transplants similar to what happens when identical twins are formed?
A single embryo is formed which then splits in two identical twins. In cloning the embryo is split into several groups of cells.
How are calf embryos cloned?
After sexual reproduction, a single embryo is produced. before the cells specialise the embryo is split into several groups of cells. Each group is transplanted into a different host mother. The calves born are genetically identical.
Why is embryo cloning sometimes used by cattle breeders rather than letting the cattle breed naturally?
Embryo cloning top class animals is quicker and cheaper. Cattle only have one or two young per year. If prize animals are bred together the farmer can get large numbers of the prize calves by cloning the single embryo. Embryos can also be flown around the world to benefit other farmers.
Outline the process of genetic engineering.
A gene is cut from chromosome of one organism using enzymes. The gene is then transferred to the chromosome of another organism. The gene then controls the development of a characteristic in the second organism.
Give two advantages of genetic engineering
Compounds such as insulin can be produced in large quantities
Antibodies can be produced to treat disease
Genetic disorders can be treated
herbicide and insect-resistant crops can be produced
Food which lasts longer can be produced
How are crops genetically modified?
A gene is transferred from another organism into the chromosome of the crop plant
