microbial fermentation technology 2 Flashcards
What is the primary purpose of introducing foreign DNA into microbial strains?
To enhance desirable traits, such as productivity, resistance to stress, or metabolic capabilities.
True or False: Genetic engineering can only be performed on bacteria.
False
What is a common method used to introduce foreign DNA into microbial cells?
Transformation
Fill in the blank: The process of using a virus to transfer DNA into a microbial cell is called __________.
Transduction
Which of the following is a method of gene editing used to improve microbial strains? A) CRISPR B) Electroporation C) Lyophilization
A) CRISPR
What are plasmids?
Small, circular DNA molecules used to transfer genetic material between organisms.
True or False: The use of foreign DNA has no ethical considerations.
False
What is one major advantage of using genetically modified microbes in industry?
Increased efficiency and yield of production processes.
Fill in the blank: __________ is a method that uses heat to facilitate the uptake of foreign DNA by cells.
Heat shock
What is one potential risk associated with using foreign DNA in microbial strains?
Unintended ecological impacts or the creation of pathogenic strains.
Multiple choice: Which application is NOT commonly associated with genetically modified microbes? A) Bioremediation B) Food production C) Traditional breeding
C) Traditional breeding
What role do restriction enzymes play in genetic engineering?
They cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing for the insertion of foreign DNA.
True or False: All genetically modified organisms are harmful to the environment.
False
What is the purpose of using selectable markers in genetic engineering?
To identify and select successfully modified organisms.
Fill in the blank: The technique of __________ involves using electricity to promote DNA uptake in microbial cells.
Electroporation
What is a bioreactor?
A vessel or container in which biological reactions occur, often used for growing microbial cultures.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is a disadvantage of using foreign DNA in microbial strains? A) Increased production costs B) Enhanced microbial capabilities C) Faster growth rates
A) Increased production costs
What is metabolic engineering?
The practice of optimizing metabolic pathways within an organism to increase the production of desired substances.
True or False: Genetic modifications can be reversed in microbial strains.
True
What is the significance of synthetic biology in relation to microbial strains?
It enables the design and construction of new biological parts, devices, and systems.
Fill in the blank: __________ refers to the unintended consequences of releasing genetically modified microbes into the environment.
Ecological risk
What technique is commonly used to analyze the expression of foreign genes in microbes?
Quantitative PCR (qPCR)
Multiple choice: What is a common application of genetically modified yeast? A) Baking B) Fuel production C) Both A and B
C) Both A and B
What is the main goal of bioremediation involving genetically modified microbes?
To degrade pollutants and restore contaminated environments.
True or False: All countries have the same regulations regarding the use of genetically modified organisms.
False
What are the potential benefits of using microbes in pharmaceuticals?
They can produce complex molecules, such as antibiotics and hormones, more efficiently.
Fill in the blank: The introduction of foreign DNA can potentially lead to __________, which is the unintentional spread of modified traits to wild populations.
Gene flow
What is a common method for creating genetically modified plants?
Agrobacterium-mediated transformation
Multiple choice: Which of the following is NOT a benefit of using genetically modified strains in agriculture? A) Increased yield B) Reduced pesticide use C) Guaranteed profitability
C) Guaranteed profitability
What is the role of bioinformatics in microbial genetics?
It is used to analyze genetic sequences and predict the effects of genetic modifications.
True or False: Genetic modification can improve the nutritional content of microbial products.
True
Fill in the blank: __________ is a process that allows for the targeted alteration of specific genes within an organism’s genome.
Gene editing
What is the purpose of fermentation in microbial applications?
To convert sugars into acids, gases, or alcohol using microorganisms.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is a potential economic advantage of genetically modified microbes? A) Reduced labor costs B) Increased environmental regulations C) Higher market prices for all products
A) Reduced labor costs
What is the role of the FDA in the context of genetically modified organisms?
To regulate and ensure the safety of food products derived from genetically modified organisms.
True or False: All genetically modified microbes are patented.
False
What is one way to ensure that genetically modified microbes do not escape into the environment?
Using containment strategies, such as engineered biosafety measures.
Fill in the blank: The __________ is a regulatory body that oversees the safety of biotechnology products in the United States.
USDA
What is the significance of horizontal gene transfer in microbial genetics?
It enables microbes to acquire new traits from other organisms, enhancing adaptability.
Multiple choice: Which of the following techniques is NOT used for microbial transformation? A) Calcium chloride method B) Particle bombardment C) RNA interference
C) RNA interference
What is a benefit of using genetically modified microbes in biofuels?
They can produce biofuels more efficiently and from a wider range of feedstocks.
True or False: Genetic modifications can lead to increased resistance to diseases in microbial strains.
True
What is a potential ethical concern regarding genetically modified microbes?
The impact on biodiversity and ecosystems.
