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Principles of Genetic Engineering. What is genetic engineering. Genetic engineering, also known as recombinant DNA technology , means altering the genes in a living organism to produce a new genotype. Various kinds of genetic modification are possible:
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What is genetic engineering • Genetic engineering, also known as recombinant DNA technology, means altering the genes in a living organism to produce a new genotype. • Various kinds of genetic modification are possible: • inserting a foreign gene from one species into another • altering an existing gene so that its product is changed • changing gene expression so that it is translated more often or not at all.
Selective Breeding • Changing gene expression so that it is translated more often or not at all. • Humans have been doing this for centuries.
Cloning • A clone produces two organisms with exactly the same genes. • Plants are easily cloned by vegetative propagation; cuttings, layering, etc. • Animals can also be cloned. The diploid nucleus of and egg cell is replaced with the haploid nucleus of a body cell. Doesn’t work very well – too many genes are turned off.
Making Recombinant DNA – Gene Splicing • 1) Isolate pieces of DNA with desirable gene. • 2) Inserting DNA into host plasmid which is bacteria or a virus. • 3) Cloning vector. • 4 )Selecting clones with desired genes.
Step 1: Isolating the gene • Proteins called “restriction enzymes” are used to cut the DNA into small pieces.
Step 2: Inserting gene into vector • Vector – molecule of DNA which is used to carry a foreign gene into a host cell.
Step 3: Cloning Vector • All genetically identical because of asexual reproduction • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlqD4UWCuws
Safety of Genetic Engineering • New kinds of organisms • New diseases • Epidemic • Healthcare • Insulin production for diabetics • Interferon • Fixing genetic defects • Producing hormones or enzymes http://www.iptv.org/video/detail.cfm/3761/exm_20030905_ge_full http://www.mnn.com/green-tech/research-innovations/photos/12-bizarre-examples-of-genetic-engineering/mad-science