BRAINCAKEGenetic Engineering and Biotechnology
Revision notes for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology in AQA Biology (7402). Read the start of any lesson here, then sign in free for the whole lesson, the R.E.C.I.P.E. recall steps and the quiz.
- Non-coding DNAThe human genome consists of 20-25,000 genes, making up about 25 of the human DNA.
- Gel ElectrophoresisGel electrophoresis is used to separate DNA fragments.
- DNA ProfilingStrands of DNA are cut into small fragment using restriction endonucleases.
- The Polymerase Chain ReactionIn the past, at least 1μg of DNA was required for DNA profiling.
- DNA SequencingThe idea of DNA sequencing is to work out the order of nucleotide bases in DNA.
- Automated SequencingNowadays, the sequencing reaction takes place o a plastic slide called a flow cell.
- Pathogens, DNA BarcodingThe genomes of several pathogens have been sequenced.
- Genomics and ProteomicsThere are 10 - 40 times as may proteins as there are genes.
- Recombinant DNADNA from two different organisms can be joined together.
- Genetic EngineeringOnce the gene is isolated and inserted into a vector (usually a plasmid) the vector is introduced into the host cell.
- Genetically Engineering Different OrganismsThe human insulin gene has been engineered into E. coli to produce large quantities of human insulin.
- Genetically Engineering PlantsA leaf can be cut and then exposed to Agrobacterium tumefaciens Which has been genetically engineered to include a recombinant plasmid.
- Ethical Concerns - microorganismsGenetically modified bacteria can be made to produce large quantities of useful substances such as insulin or vaccines or can be used in medical or…
- GM plantsAlthough the production of GM plants could help address global issues such as providing food and reducing damage to the environment there are risks…
- PatentingCompanies that develop GM crops may apply for patents preventing farmers from growing the crops without payment or harvesting seed so they can grow…
- GM animalsGenetically modifying animals is much harder than genetically modifying plants or microorganisms.
- Gene TherapySomatic gene therapy involves replacing undesired or faulty alleles in body cells with healthy alleles.