What is genetic engineering
The process of altering an organism’s DNA by inserting or removing specific genes to achieve desired traits
What is a genetically modified organism
An organism that has had its genetic material modified using genetic engineering techniques
Main steps of genetic engineering
- Identify desired gene in an organism
- Extract the gene
- Insert the gene into target organism
- Transfer gene into target organism
- Allow modified organism to grow and express new gene
What is a vector in genetic engineering
A tool, such as a plasmid or virus which is used to transfer gene into target
Example of genetic engineering in agriculture
GM crops, such as pest resistant corn or drought tolerant wheat are genetically modified to improve yield and resilience
How is genetic engineering used in medicine
Produced insulin for diabetes and develop gene therapy for genetic disorders
Benefits of genetic engineering
- Increase crop yield and resilience
- Treats genetic disorders
- Produces medicines such as insulin
- Reduce pesticides in farming
Risks of genetic engineering
- Ethical concerns
- Consequences for ecosystems
- Reduce genetic diversity
- Allergic reactions in GM food
How is human insulin produced in bacteria
Through genetic engineering, the human insulin gene is cut using a restriction enzyme and inserted into a bacterial plasmid, which is also cut with the same enzyme. DNA ligase joins the gene to the plasmid, forming recombinant DNA. The modified plasmid is inserted into bacteria through transformation, allowing them to multiply and produce insulin, which is then extracted and purified for medical use.
