DNA: THE SECRET OF LIFE By: James Watson Chapter 4: Playing God: Customizing DNA Molecules

Current Genetic Engineering Applications Bacterial drug production (insulin, hGH)

Current Genetic Engineering Applications Herbicide-resistant crops (glyphosate) – “round-up ready” Crops given engineered to resist the effects of glyphosate

Current Genetic Engineering Applications Pest resistant crops Bt Corn – Transgenic corn that contains a bacterial gene for the Bt toxin Bacillus thuringiensis – soil bacteria that produces a toxin that kills the Lepidoptera larvae

Current Genetic Engineering Applications Fast-growing fish – aquaculture “Anti-freeze” proteins form the Ocean Pout inserted into salmon embryos Salmon grow 2-3 times faster

Current Genetic Engineering Applications Green Florescent Protein - glows green Jellyfish protein Inserted into many organisms as a “reporter of expression”

Reading Reflection Very early in the era of genetic engineering Paul Berg planned to carry out an experiment. He halted his plans. (pg ) Briefly describe his plans. Why did he stop his research? Explain the scientific and political climate that influenced genetic engineering. Give one specific example of how public policy determined when and how research was carried out. Frame the ethical debate by writing a brief statement in support of recombinant DNA research and a brief statement against recombinant DNA research.