Topic 4 - Stages Of Genetic Engineering

Question 1

What is the first step in the stages of genetic engineering?

Answer 1

Genes from chromosomes are ‘cut out’ using restriction enzymes.

Stage 1
## Footnote

Restriction enzymes are proteins that recognize specific sequences of nucleotides and cut the DNA at these sites.

Question 2

What is used to cut the vector in genetic engineering?

Answer 2

The same restriction enzymes used to cut the genes.

Stage 2

Vectors can be viruses or bacterial plasmids that carry the genetic material into a host organism.

Question 3

What enzyme is used to attach the sticky ends of the gene and the vector?

Answer 3

Ligase enzyme.

Stage 3

Ligase is crucial for joining DNA fragments together, forming a stable recombinant DNA molecule.

Question 4

What is produced after ligating the gene and vector?

Answer 4

A recombinant gene product.

This product can express the desired traits when introduced into an organism.

Question 5

At what stage in development is the vector placed in another organism?

Answer 5

At an early stage in development.

This allows the desired gene to integrate into the cells of the developing organism.

Question 6

In plants, where is the vector introduced?

Answer 6

Into meristematic cells.

Meristematic cells are unspecialized cells capable of division and can differentiate into various cell types.

Question 7

What is a characteristic of meristematic cells?

Answer 7

They can produce identical copies of the modified plant.

This property is essential for cloning and ensuring uniformity in genetically modified plants.