{ Genetic Engineering Application of molecular genetics (understanding of DNA) for practical purposes

Restriction Enzymes  Used to cut DNA molecules into usable pieces, usually to isolate a particular gene of interest  Work by recognizing specific DNA sequences  Cuts unevenly to create “sticky ends” of single stranded

Cloning Vector – Plasmid  A “carrier” used to clone a gene and transfer it from one organism to another  Commonly used: bacterial plasmid  Small amount of circular DNA

Transgenic Organisms  Inserting a gene for a desired trait into a new organism  Applications:  Pest resistant crops  Making insulin

Cloning Making an exact copy of an organism by extracting a full set of its DNA from a somatic cell. Applications of cloning: Make copies of organisms with desirable traits Stronger and larger livestock Plants that bear larger fruit

DNA Fingerprinting  Step 1: PCR to amplify DNA  Step 2: Cut DNA with restriction enzymes  Step 3: DNA probes to visualize fragments  Step 4: Gel electrophoresis to separate fragments by size and charge  Applications = forensic science!

Gene Therapy  Defected/mutated gene = defective protein  Gene therapy = insert healthy gene to produce protein in cells that are affected  Helpful for single protein/enzyme diseases  Limited in that  Healthy gene cannot be passed down  Results are temporary