Genetic Engineering & Technology

Recombinant DNA Technology Introduction to Gene Splicing Do Now: Copy down the following key terms in your notebook. Gene Splicing- A process where DNA from one organism is inserted into the DNA of another organism. Plasmid- A single-stranded circular piece of DNA found in bacteria. Restriction Enzyme- Cuts a piece of plasmid DNA at specific points. DNA Ligase- Enzyme that connects fragments of DNA together.

Steps to Gene Splicing: DNA containing the desired gene is removed from the cell by restriction enzymes (cut out gene). Plasmid is removed from bacteria to use as vector. Step 2: Desired gene is inserted into the bacterial plasmid. Step 3: Desired gene is transcribed and translated into a desired protein product.

Regents Diagrams Protein Product

Gene Therapy The insertion of normal genes into human cells to correct genetic disorders.

Cloning A cell or organism that is genetically identical to the cell or individual from which it came from.

Cloning Dolly the Sheep First animal to be successfully cloned (1996).

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) A method of copying pieces of DNA so that they can be used in further lab testing.

Gel Electrophoresis  A method for separation and analysis of macromolecules (DNA, RNA, and proteins) and their fragments. Uses electrodes to move particles based on size and charge. Gel Electrophoresis Animation

Which is more closely related?

Who is more closely related?

Amniocentesis DNA taken from a small amount of amniotic fluid is examined for genetic abnormalities, fetal infections, and sex determination.

Karyotype DNA (in the form of chromosomes) is taken from fetal cells, enlarged under a microscope, stained, and photographed. Chromosomes are arranged by number (1- 22, XX/XY) and analyzed for a variety of mutations and genetic diseases. *Chromosomes 1-22 = Autosomes *Chromosomes X & Y = Sex Chromosomes

Karyotype of Individual with Trisomy 21 Trisomy 21 = Down Syndrome

Karyotype of Individual with Kleinfelter’s Syndrome Kleinfelter’s Syndrome = XXY Male

Karyotype of Individual with Turner Syndrome Turner Syndrome = X Female

Human Genome Project Government and Private Company funded project designed to sequence the entire human genome. Scientists (including Francis Crick!) used special machinery in combination with the improved techniques for prenatal diagnosis, gene therapy, new methods of crime detection, knowledge of our genes. Ethics of HGP

Genetically Modified Organisms Genetically Engineered Crops- Crops with modified DNA to be better fit to certain environments. Why? Stay fresh longer Protected from disease/Resistant to Pathogens Larger (Increase food supply) Not cause allergic reactions (ex: peanuts, soybeans) Ethical Questions: Are these crops harmful to us? What is a GMO?

Selective Breeding Humans select plants or animals with desirable traits and breed them so that the qualities are more common and of more use to humans. Ex: Milk Production 1947: Avg cow produced 4,997 lbs milk/yr 1997: 16,915 lbs milk/yr Ex: Dogs Different breeds of dogs that have special desired characteristics. Temperament, fur/coat type (Julius!), fur/coat color