Topic 4 Genetic Engineering

Question 1

What is genetic engineering?

Answer 1

Modifying an organism’s genome to introduce desirable traits.

Question 2

What do restriction enzymes do?

Answer 2

Cut DNA at specific sequences.

Question 3

What are sticky ends?

Answer 3

Short overhangs that help DNA fragments join.

Question 4

What does ligase do?

Answer 4

Joins DNA fragments together.

Question 5

What is a vector?

Answer 5

A carrier (e.g., plasmid or virus) used to transfer DNA into cells.

Question 6

What is the first step of genetic engineering?

Answer 6

Cut out the desired gene using restriction enzymes.

Question 7

What is the second step?

Answer 7

Cut the vector with the same enzyme to create matching sticky ends.

Question 8

What is the third step?

Answer 8

Use ligase to insert the gene into the vector.

Question 9

What is the final step?

Answer 9

Insert the vector into the target organism so it expresses the new gene.

Question 10

What is an example of genetic engineering?

Answer 10

Bacteria engineered to produce insulin.