DNA Technology and Ethical Issues

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to DNA technology, including applications, techniques, and ethical considerations.

DNA Fingerprinting

Using variations in genetic code to compare and identify organisms.

Transgenic Organisms

Organisms engineered with recombinant DNA for specific traits.

Gel Electrophoresis

A laboratory method used to separate mixtures of DNA, RNA, or proteins according to their size and electrical charge.

Gene Therapy

The process of altering genes to treat or cure diseases.

Stem Cells

Cells with the ability to differentiate into various cell types used in research.

CRISPR

A gene editing technology.

Recombinant DNA

DNA that has been combined from multiple sources.

Plasmids

Circular DNA molecules in bacteria used in genetic engineering.

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences.

Human Genome Project

A project to map the entire human genome.

Karyotype

The number and appearance of chromosomes in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell.

Molecular Cloning

The process of making multiple copies of a gene or DNA sequence.

Therapeutic Cloning

Cloning to produce cells or tissues for medical treatments.

Genetic Engineering

The modification of an organism's genes.

Ethical Issues of DNA Technology

Concerns about privacy, potential for discrimination, and manipulation of human characteristics.

Synthetic Production of Human Insulin

Using genetically modified organisms to produce insulin.