biotechnolgy and GMO

What is a GMO?

A GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) is an organism whose DNA has been changed using biotechnology, often by adding a gene from another species.

What does “transgenic” mean?

Transgenic means an organism has DNA from another species.

What is CRISPR?

1. Scientists identify the gene that needs to be changed.

2. They design a guide RNA that matches that exact DNA sequence.

3. The guide RNA is attached to the Cas enzyme.

4. The CRISPR–Cas complex is delivered into the cell.

5. Guide RNA finds and binds to the target DNA.

6. Cas enzyme cuts the DNA at that exact spot.

7. The cell detects the damage and starts repair.

8. Scientists add new DNA (if needed).

9. The cell repairs itself using this new DNA.

CRISPR can:

• Fix broken genes

• Add genes

• Change genes

. What is the difference between knockout and CRISPR?

• Knockout = a gene is destroyed or turned off.

• CRISPR = a gene is cut and repaired or changed.

Why is gene editing risky?

• The scissors might cut the wrong place.

• An essential gene could be damaged.

• This can cause serious harm or death.

What are knockout mice?

Knockout mice are genetically modified mice where one specific gene is turned off to learn what that gene does.

Why do scientists use knockout mice?

• Humans have ~20,000 genes.

• By removing one gene and observing changes, scientists learn its function.

• Helps understand human diseases.

Why do we care about DNA sequences?

• Humans share 99.9% of DNA.

• The 0.1% difference makes you unique.

• Used for paternity tests, crime solving, and identification.

How does DNA profiling work?

DNA is separated using gel electrophoresis.
Small fragments move faster, large ones slower.
Matching band patterns = same person.

What is PCR?

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a technology that makes millions of copies of DNA quickly.

Why do we need PCR?

• To get enough DNA to study

• For forensics

• For medical tests

• For sequencing DNA

How do we clone a gene?

1. Cut the human gene with a restriction enzyme.

2. Cut a plasmid with the same enzyme.

3. Sticky ends match.

4. DNA ligase glues them together.

5. Put plasmid into bacteria.

6. Bacteria copy the gene and make the protein.

What is recombinant DNA?

DNA made from different sources combined into one molecule.

What is a vector?

A vector is a vehicle that carries DNA into a cell, such as a plasmid or virus.

Give an example of gene cloning.

The human insulin gene is inserted into bacteria.
Bacteria produce human insulin for diabetics.

How are animals cloned?

1. Take a body cell and remove its nucleus.

2. Take an egg cell and remove its nucleus.

3. Insert the first nucleus into the egg.

4. Let it grow into an embryo.

5. Place it in a surrogate mother.
   Result: a genetic copy (clone).

What problems exist with animal cloning?

• Expensive

• Inefficient

• Many clones are unhealthy

• Shorter lifespans
  Human cloning is illegal.

What is gene therapy?

Gene therapy treats genetic diseases by:

• Adding a working gene

• Fixing a faulty gene

• Turning off a harmful gene

What are the two types of gene therapy?

• In vivo: genes are delivered inside the body.

• Ex vivo: cells are removed, edited, and returned (e;

Why are viruses used in gene therapy?

• They are good at entering cells

• Their own genes are removed

• A healthy gene is inserted

• They deliver the gene to target cells

. Why does genetic engineering matter?

Genetic engineering helps solve global problems like food shortages, population growth, and climate change.
It is a powerful tool that can be used for good or bad, so it must be understood and controlled.

How common are GMOs in everyday life?

GMOs are very common, especially in the USA.
Most people eat GMOs indirectly through corn, soy, sugar beets, and animal feed.
So far, most GMOs are plants, but GM animals may appear in the future.

What is the difference between traditional breeding and GMOs?

• Traditional breeding (artificial selection) has been used for thousands of years.

• Example: broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower all come from wild cabbage.

• Modern GMOs usually use transgenesis, not breeding.

What is transgenesis?

Transgenesis is inserting a gene from one species into another species.

What is the history of genetic engineering?

• 1920s: mutation breeding using radiation and chemicals

• 1983: first successful gene transfer between species

• 1994: first GM food sold (Flavr Savr tomato)

• Public debate about GMOs started and still continues

. What types of GM crops are most common?

Over 90% of GM crops are commodity crops such as:

• Corn

• Soy

• Sugar beets

They are usually modified to resist insects or herbicides.

What are Roundup Ready crops?

Roundup Ready crops are genetically engineered to survive the herbicide glyphosate.
This allows farmers to kill weeds without damaging crops.
They are made by inserting bacterial genes into plants.

How are genes inserted into plants?

• Gene gun: shoots DNA-coated gold particles into plant cells

• Agrobacterium: a bacterium that naturally transfers DNA into plants
  After insertion, GM plants are bred into crop varieties using back-crossbreeding.

Why do GM crops take a long time to develop?

• Development can take up to 15 years

• Testing for safety and effectiveness is required

• It is very expensive, so companies patent and control seeds

What are the main concerns about GMOs?

• Corporate control of the food supply

• Farmers cannot save patented seeds

• Risk of cross-pollination with non-GM crops

• Possible environmental effects on insects and ecosystems

GMO Biotechnology Benefits

• Helps solve food shortages and population growth

• Crops can resist insects and herbicides

• Higher yields and more reliable food supply

• Can reduce the need for pesticides

• Important for adapting agriculture to climate change

GMO Biotechnology Problems:

• Corporate control of seeds and food supply

• Farmers cannot save patented seeds

• Risk of cross-pollination with non-GM crops

• Possible long-term environmental effects

• Ethical concerns and unequal access

Conclusion:
GMOs are powerful and useful, but they must be carefully regulated and used responsibly.