Chapter 2: Genetic Engineering
Genetic engineering is a significant area of biotechnology focused on the manipulation of organisms' genomes for various purposes, including medical, agricultural, and industrial applications. Key techniques such as gene cloning, recombinant DNA technology, and the use of vectors and enzymes enable the creation of genetically modified organisms and therapeutic products. As the field progresses, it raises vital ethical considerations regarding safety, accessibility, and human genetic alteration.
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What we have learnt
- Genetic engineering involves direct manipulation of an organism's genome.
- Techniques like gene cloning and recombinant DNA technology are foundational to genetic engineering.
- There are significant ethical concerns surrounding the safety and accessibility of genetically modified organisms and gene therapies.
Key Concepts
- -- Gene Cloning
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The process of making multiple identical copies of a gene or DNA segment for study or protein production.
- -- Recombinant DNA Technology
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The method of combining DNA from different sources to create a new genetic combination.
- -- Vectors
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DNA molecules used to carry foreign genetic material into a host cell during genetic engineering.
- -- Restriction Enzymes
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Proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences to facilitate genetic manipulation.
- -- DNA Ligase
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An enzyme that joins DNA fragments together by forming phosphodiester bonds.
- -- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
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A technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences, making millions of copies of a target DNA segment.
- -- Transformation
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The process of introducing recombinant DNA into host cells.
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