biotech

What are the general differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic: single-celled, no nucleus, smaller, more species. Eukaryotic: single or multi-celled, have a nucleus, more complex, used for biotechnology-related labs.

How and why do scientists use ‘model systems’?

Model systems help scientists investigate new organisms or biological systems using known knowledge. Example: anthrax in livestock to help with human disease.

How are bacteria classified?

Bacteria are classified based on the thickness of their peptidoglycan cell wall: gram-positive (absorb stain) or gram-negative (do not absorb stain). Morphological types include coccus (spherical), bacillus (rod-shaped), and spirillum (spiral).

What is a plasmid?

A loop of genomic DNA found in bacteria.

What are the different types of cells often used in biotechnology?

Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO), African green monkey kidney cells (Vero cells), and human epithelial cells (HeLa cells).

What is a recombinant protein?

A protein that is artificially produced in a genetically engineered organism.

What does the Kirby-Bauer test determine?

The sensitivity of bacteria to antibiotics, commonly used in biotech labs, involving paper disks in a petri dish to test the zone of inhibition.

What is the correct way to label media?

Label the outside bottom plate in an arc with the type of agar, the date poured, and initials. After inoculation, label with microorganism name, number in series, and inoculation location.

Describe the two different types of media that are used to culture bacteria.

Liquid media (for protein production or isolating plasmid DNA, cannot isolate individual colonies) and solid media (uses antibiotics to select resistant bacteria).

What term is used to describe DNA that has been produced by cutting and pasting together pieces of DNA from two different organisms?

Recombinant DNA or rDNA.

What was the first genetically engineered product to reach the marketplace?

Human insulin for the treatment of diabetes.

What are stem cells and why are they sometimes used in biotechnology?

Stem cells can become any tissue depending on molecular signals and have potential to cure diseases; they are used for their special regenerative qualities.

What types of animals are often used in scientific research and biotechnology?

Rats and mice are the main animals used, with others including birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and various mammals.

What is the difference between primary cells and cell lines?

Primary cells are directly isolated from living tissue, while cell lines are derived from primary cells to expand the population and prolong lifespan.

What are the three domains of life?

The three domains of life are Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya.

What is Archaea?

Archaea are prokaryotes that do not cause known human diseases, found in the human digestive system and extreme environments like deep ocean volcanic vents and salt lakes (extremophiles). They are being researched for their potential to produce enzymes used in harsh manufacturing processes.

What distinguishes Bacteria from Archaea?

Bacteria are also prokaryotes but are more abundant than Archaea.

What comprises the domain Eukarya?

The domain Eukarya includes organisms such as yeast, algae, and humans.