Genetic Engineering Flashcards
What is genetic engineering ?
Genetic engineering involves the transfer of genes from one species of organism into another. The genes then function in the new organism to produce a substance useful to man.
Give an example of genetic engineering used in humans?
The human gene which produces insulin, can be inserted into a host bacterial cell which multiplies and therefore can produce a large quantity of insulin in a short time.
What is the first stage of genetic engineering?
Identification of the gene that codes for the protein of interest.
What is stage 2 of genetic engineering?
Removal of required gene for the donor, e.g. human.
What is stage 3 of genetic engineering?
Removal of plasmid from host bacterial cell.
What is stage 4 of genetic engineering?
Insertion of gene into the plasmid.
What is stage 5 of genetic engineering?
Duplication of plasmid and multiplication of bacterial cell.
What is stage 6 of genetic engineering?
Isolation and purification of the desired product.
What are the advantages of genetic engineering?(2)
Produce large quantities of desired product
Wide range of substances of medicinal and commercial value produced.
What are the disadvantages of genetic engineering?(2)
Cost of development is expensive
Possibility of reprogrammed bacteria released into the ecosystem with harmful effects.
