bio 3201 unit 2b pink

Genetic Engineering

The process of manipulating genetic material in a laboratory to alter genes and combine plant, animal, and bacterial DNA.

Recombinant DNA

A molecule of DNA that contains genetic material from different sources, created using various tools by genetic researchers.

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes that catalyze the cleavage of DNA at specific nucleotide sequences, known for their specificity and ability to create staggered cuts.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

An automated process used to copy DNA many times, involving the heating and cooling of DNA fragments to produce multiple identical DNA molecules.

Gel Electrophoresis

A technique used to separate DNA fragments based on their mass and charge, helping in the analysis and comparison of DNA samples.

DNA Microarray

A chip containing thousands of microscopic cells used to analyze gene activity by binding with mRNA molecules, allowing the simultaneous study of numerous genes.

CRISPR

A genome editing technology that can target specific genetic sequences for adding, deleting, or altering in living cells and organisms, offering potential for treating genetic diseases.

Transgenic Organism

An organism whose genetic material includes DNA from a different species, created through techniques like importing foreign DNA into plants and animals.

Cloning

Producing genetically identical organisms, such as cloned animals, with techniques like those used to create transgenic animals for various purposes.

Biotechnology

The use of natural biological systems to develop new technologies and products, including genetic engineering, which is a rapidly growing field within biotechnology.