Genetic Engineering

Key Stage 4

Meaning

Genetic Engineering is the process of directly altering the DNA of an organism.

About Genetic Engineering

In genetic engineering genes which code for the synthesis of a specific protein can be taken from one organims and inserted into the DNA of another organism.

To genetically engineer an organism a gene is cut from the DNA of another organism using a special enzyme. The DNA of the recipient organism is then cut, the new gene is inserted and then another enzyme is used to stick the DNA back together with the new gene inside it. The organism is then encouraged to reproduce.

Genetic engineering can be done within a single generation. It can also introduce characteristics to an organism which are unlikely to have been able to evolve naturally.

Examples

• Insulin Production - Many people suffer from Diabetes and formerly the only way to get insulin was to drain the pancreas of dead pigs.

The gene which codes for the synthesis of insulin can be removed from a human cell. This gene is then inserted into the plasmid of a bacteria. The bacteria is then encouraged to reproduce. This new colony of bacteria synthesise insulin.

• Golden Rice - Many people in emerging economies have diets which are poor in vitamin A. This can lead to blindness. The plant gene which synthesises vitamin A is removed form one organism and inserted into the cells of a young rice plant. This plant will then produce vitamin A preventing thousands of children from going blind every year.