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What is biotechnology mainly about?
Biotechnology is about altering living organisms to produce something specific for humans, such as food and medications.
What are two examples of biotechnology that students have studied?
Insulin production through genetic engineering and selective breeding for higher yields.
What is selective breeding used for in animals?
It is used to select for traits such as increased milk or meat production.
What is genetic engineering?
It is the process of altering the genetic makeup of an organism to produce desired traits or products.
What are the primary conditions needed for growing fungi in fermentation?
Temperature, pH, oxygen, glucose, and amino acids.
What is a fermenter?
A fermenter is a device used to provide optimal conditions for the growth and production of microorganisms.
What is single-cell protein?
Single-cell protein refers to protein derived from single-celled organisms such as fungi, used as a sustainable food source.
What method do bacteria use to reproduce?
Bacteria reproduce by binary fission.
What is the role of restriction enzymes in genetic engineering?
Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing genes to be removed or inserted.
How do scientists identify successfully transformed bacteria?
They insert antibiotic resistance genes alongside the gene of interest, allowing them to select for those that are successfully transformed.
What does Bacillus thuringiensis do in biotechnology?
It is engineered into crops to produce a toxin that kills insect pests.
What are two advantages of using microprotein?
It is quick to produce and requires less land compared to traditional livestock.
What is one disadvantage of producing microprotein?
Some people may not like the taste and texture compared to traditional meat.
Why is genetic engineering considered important for food production?
It helps increase food supply to meet the demands of a growing population by enhancing crop resistance and yield.
What is an example of a plant genetically modified for enhanced nutritional value?
Golden rice, which is modified to contain high levels of beta-carotene.
What do antibiotic resistance genes help determine in genetically modified bacteria?
They help identify which bacteria have successfully incorporated the desired plasmid.
What are the building blocks of proteins?
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.
What are the core components needed for aerobic fermentation of fungi?
Oxygen, glucose, and amino acids are the core components needed.
What is the importance of maintaining optimal pH and temperature in fermentation?
To prevent enzyme denaturation and ensure optimal growth conditions for microorganisms.
Why is insulin produced by bacteria preferred over pig insulin?
It is easier to extract and purify, and can be produced on a larger scale.
What is CRISPR technology?
CRISPR technology is a gene-editing tool that allows for specific alterations in DNA sequences.
What is the significance of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?
GMOs are organisms whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering, leading to enhanced traits such as pest resistance and improved nutrition.
What role do plasmids play in genetic engineering?
Plasmids are small circular DNA molecules used as vectors to introduce foreign genes into bacteria.
What is the function of yeast in biotechnology?
Yeast is used in fermentation processes to produce alcohol, bread, and other products.
How does fermentation benefit food production?
Fermentation helps preserve food, enhances flavors, and can increase nutritional value.
What is bioremediation?
Bioremediation is the use of microorganisms to clean up contaminated environments, such as oil spills.
What are the ethical concerns related to genetic engineering?
Ethical concerns include potential impacts on biodiversity, food safety, and the moral implications of altering life forms.
What is the purpose of using genetically modified crops?
Genetically modified crops aim to improve yield, resistance to pests and diseases, and reduce the need for chemical pesticides.
What is the process of tissue culture?
Tissue culture is a technique where plant cells are grown in a controlled environment to produce new plants.
What are biopharmaceuticals?
Biopharmaceuticals are drugs produced using biological processes, often involving genetically modified organisms.