Genetic Modification

Question 1

Why are viruses and plasmids used in gene technology?

Answer 1

Because of their ability to replicate within bacteria cells. They are often used as vectors to introduce a donor gene into a host cell

Question 2

How does genetic modification work?

Answer 2

1. Identify the gene that carries the instructions for making insulin
2. Cut this gene out of the chromosome using restriction endonuclease
3. Remove a plasmid from the bacteria
4. Use the same restriction enzyme to cut open the plasmid
5. Insert the gene using DNA ligase
6. Place the recombinant plasmid into a bacterium
7. Culture the bacterium into a colony within a fermenter
8. Collect the product of the inserted gene and prepare it for use

Question 3

Transgenic

Answer 3

An organism which has had genetic material from a different species transferred into its cells