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Notes
1.
Genetic Engineering--The technology of preparing recombinant DNA. This is
done by cutting up DNA molecules and splicing together fragments from more than
one organism.
2.
Recombinant DNA--DNA that has been recombined by genetic engineering.
This involves the combining of DNA from two different organisms. See below
“Cats that have been genetically modified to glow in the dark are being used to gain
insights into Aids. The scientists inserted one gene into the cats that helps them
resist the feline form of Aids. They also inserted a gene that produces a
fluorescent protein called GFP, Nature Methods journal reports. This protein which is produced naturally in jellyfish - is commonly used in this area of research
to monitor the activity of altered genes.”
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3.
Plasmid--a small ring of DNA that is found in bacterial cells. This is in addition to
the large ring of DNA found in Prokaryotes. Plasmids are used in genetic
engineering. See below.
Figure 1: Illustration of a bacterium with plasmid enclosed showing chromosomal DNA
and plasmids.
4.
Vector--a genetically engineered virus or bacteria that contains genes from
another organism. Examples: (1) Plasmid used to make human insulin in bacteria.
(2) Virus used to replace a defective gene in humans such as cystic fibrosis
5.
How Genetically Engineered Bacteria are used--Example: some
bacterial has been used to produce the human protein insulin which is used to treat
diabetes. In addition, some bacterial have been used to clean up oil spills.
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6.
Restriction Enzymes--special enzymes that have the ability to cut DNA at
specific sites. These enzymes are used in Genetic Engineering.
7.
Gene Therapy--inserting a replacement gene into a person’s cell to correct a
defective gene by using a genetically engineered virus. Example: Cystic Fibrosis
8.
Vector--a genetically engineered virus or bacteria that contains genes from
another organism. Examples: (1) Plasmid used to make human insulin in bacteria.
(2) Virus used to replace a defective gene in humans such as cystic fibrosis.
9.
Clone--an organism, cell or piece of genetic material that is genetically identical
to one that was preexisting. Example: Dolly the sheep.
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10.
Gel Electrophoresis—a process used to create a DNA Fingerprint.
11.
DNA Fingerprint--a banding pattern of DNA that is unique to an individual.
This banding pattern is created by Gel Electrophoresis. See figure above
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DNA fragments are injected into wells and an
electric current is applied along the gel.
DNA is negatively charged so it will travel
through the gel toward the positive electrode. The pattern formed is the DNA
fingerprint.
Examples of DNA Fingerprinting
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12.
Human Genome Project--an international effort to sequence the human
gene pool called the Genome. The goal is to be able to replace defective genes
through gene therapy.
13.
Genetically Engineered Plants--can help plants to be resistant to disease
and insects. Also make plants more desirable for human consumption.
14.
Transgenic Organism--Organisms containing the DNA of another organism.
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