B2.6 Genetic Engineering

Question 1

What is genetic engineering?

Answer 1

Process of removing a gene from an organism and inserting it into the DNA of a cell of another organism

Question 2

Describe the process of genetic engineering

Answer 2

Human chromosome is extracted from the nucleus of a human cell. Cutting enzymes cut open the plasmid DNA, the human gene is then inserted in the plasmid. New plasmid is put into a new bacteria. Each bacterium replicates same gene.

Question 3

Explain how bacteria can be genetically engineered to be able to produce human insulin

Answer 3

Gene for insulin is cut out of the DNA strand by cutting enzymes. It is removed and placed in plasmid DNA of a bacterial cell. They then join together by sticking enzymes

Question 4

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of genetic engineering on GMOs

Answer 4

Advantages - Golden rice plants are normal rice plants that have had two extra genes inserted so that they make beta carotene in the grains. Produces vitamin a, reduces vitamin a deficiency leading to blindness and lower immune system.
Insulin from GM bacteria can now be used by vegans, not affected by animal slaughter/illnesses. Using bacteria in fermenters, insulin can be made in vast quantities and made more cheaply.
Herbicide resistant plants, reduce amount of crop spraying

Disadvantage - bacteria produces slightly different insulin, not suited for everyone.
Development of herbicide resistant weeds as cross pollination with wild plants take place.
Loss of biodiversity as fewer weeds survive, loss of food and shelter for animals