U3A1: 4F genetic engineering

Question 1

genetic engineering

Answer 1

alteration of an organism’s genome using genetic recombination technologies.

Question 2

2 main GMO’s

Answer 2

• cisgenic organisms (GMO with genes from the same species inserted into its genome)
• transgenic organisms (GMO with genes from a different species inserted into its genome)

Question 3

2 main uses of GMOs in agriculture

Answer 3

• increase crop productivity (crop quality, nutritional value, ability to grow in different conditions)
• increase disease resistance (minimise crop destruction, minimise spread of disease)

Question 4

producing transgenic plants

Answer 4

1. gene identification: gene of interest identified and isolated.
2. gene delivery: isolated gene is delivered into cells of the host organism. (may be through direct insertion of through bacterial plasmid)
3. gene expression: tranformed cell is grown repeatedly using plant tissue cultures under sterile conditions before being applied in the field

Question 5

issues concerning GMOs

Answer 5

biological implications (better crop productivity, require fewer pesticides, improved nutrition. loss of genetic diversity, cross-pollination.)

social implications (food security, growth in adverse conditions, improved nutrition. expensive, legal issues, strict regulations)

ethical implications (imperative due to biological and social potential. unnatural, inhumane.)