Biotechnology

Genetic engineering

The process of altering the DNA in a genome. It is used to modify or enhance the characteristics of the organism

Transgenic organisms

Organisms with genetic modifications

Biotechnology

Using living systems, organisms, or parts of organisms to manipulate natural processes in order to benefit people

Recombinant DNA

DNA joined together from 2 different species. Inserted into a host to produce new gene products

Gene therapy

Uses genes to prevent disease or treat a disorder

Uses of biotechnology

Gene therapy, pharmaceuticals, criminal forensics, paternity/maternity testing, and agriculture

DNA cloning

A section of bacteria is cut using a restriction enzyme, and the DNA that is going to be cloned is cut with the same restriction enzyme, and becomes recombinant DNA by filling in the space that bacterial DNA was cut from. The plasmid is inserted into the bacteria, and the bacteria is cultured so that the desired gene survives. The bacteria is then cultured to reproduce and clone the DNA.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Used to quickly reproduce a section of DNA. Taq polymerase (a DNA polymerase) is used because it is heat resistant. Heat is used to denature the DNA so there are single strands to be used. Then the reaction is called so primers can bind on the template strand. The reaction temperature is then raised so taq polymerase can synthesize new DNA. When repeated, there is exponential growth of the amount of DNA.

Gel electrophoresis

Used to separate DNA fragments by size. Gel is placed in a gel box, with a positive electrode side and a negative one. A buffer solution that can conduct current is added. The end with wells (pockets) are by the negative electrode. DNA is added and there is a separate DNA ladder for reference. The power is turned on and the fragments move. Smaller fragments move faster and vice versa.

DNA sequencing

The reading of a DNA sequence to identify genes and possible traits