Study Guide Key
Topic # 3031
The Importance of Improved Genetics
By Rick Sokol
1. Describe DNA and explain how genetic engineering takes place.
•Two strands of DNA are twisted around forming a spiral structure.
•Because of the “rung” structure, segments of DNA can be cut out and new ones inserted.
•The genetic information in the cell is changed or used to make a product. Sections of
DNA molecules may be cut out and new sections inserted.
•DNA of two different organisms may be combined.
•E. coli bacteria are most often used as carriers of new DNA (vectors) into the cell.
2. List four of the products used to increase production, what animal it is used on and the
product’s goal.
•Milk Hormones – Inject BST to cows for increased milk production.
•Meat Hormones - Use PST on hogs to produce more muscle.
•Growth Implants – Insert a small pellet under the skin of animals to promote growth.
•Ammoniating Hay - Treat low quality hay with ammonia to increase protein content
and digestibility.
•Controlled Feeding - Cattle fitted with sensors allowing the animal to eat its’ specific
feed ration.
3. Give three different genetic engineering benefits.
•Herbicide, Insect, and Disease -Resistant Plants
•Transgenic Animals
•Frost Protection
•Longer Storage Life
•New Animal Products
4. Discuss four of the issues concerning the public regarding biotechnology.
•Uncertainty
•Dangers in new life forms
•Keep organisms “natural”
•Unhealthy food
•Labeling
•Ethics of joining plants and animals
•Lack of information