Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology

Flashcards about Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology

Selective Breeding

When animals or plants are purposely bred to achieve desirable traits.

Polyploid Plants

Plants are exposed to radiation, which causes them to create seeds with extra chromosomes, leading to the next generation having altered seed generation.

Genetic Modification

The alteration of the DNA of any organism (plant or animal); any organism that has its DNA modified is considered a Genetically Modified Organism (GMO).

Recombinant DNA

When new genes are added to an organism, its DNA is now called recombinant; refers to any organism with new DNA.

Plasmid Transformation

Bacteria’s chromosome (plasmid) can easily be cut & pasted to add in new genes.

CRISPR

An enzyme used to cut out genes from DNA; can be programmed to cut out specific nucleotide sequences.

Cloning

Process of making an exact genetic copy of an organism; DNA from one organism is put into the empty egg of another organism, then born.

Gel Electrophoresis

Gel & electricity used to separate DNA into individual gene pieces. Useful for ID: parents, disorders, crime suspects.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Makes hundreds of copies of a single gene. Used for medical diagnostics, cloning, and forensics.