Introduction to DNA Technology and Genomics

• Papaya Ringspot Virus (PRV):

  • A deadly pathogen threatening Hawaii’s papaya industry.

  • Scientists developed genetically engineered, PRV-resistant papaya strains to save the industry.

  • Today, most papayas in Hawaii are genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

• Applications of DNA Technologies:

  • Gene Cloning and Editing: Produces medical and industrial products.

  • DNA Profiling: Transformed forensic science methodologies.

  • Bioinformatics: Supports biological, historical, and evolutionary research.

Gene Cloning and Editing

12.1 Overview of Gene Cloning

• Gene Cloning:

  • A biotechnological application that involves manipulating organisms or their components to create useful products.

  • Usage of bacterial plasmids to contain genes from other organisms.

  • Recombinant DNA plasmids can be inserted into bacteria, leading to the multiplication of foreign genes (cloning).

  • Harvesting of proteins and other products from cloned genes.

• Examples of Gene Applications:

  • Altering bacteria for bioremediation of toxic waste.

  • Inserting pest resistance genes into plants.

  • Harvesting proteins like insulin for medical use.

12.2 Enzyme Usage in Gene Cloning

• Restriction Enzymes:

  • Cut DNA at specific sequences to create restriction fragments.

• DNA Ligase:

  • Connects (pastes) DNA fragments together to create recombinant DNA.

12.5 Advanced Gene Editing Techniques

• CRISPR-Cas9 System:

  • A revolutionary method allowing specific gene targeting for removal or editing in living cells.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

12.6 Mass Production of Gene Products

• Organisms (bacteria, yeast, or whole animals) can be engineered to mass-produce valuable products for medicine and industry.

12.7 Impact on Pharmaceuticals and Medicine

• Applications of DNA Technology:

  • Production of drugs and vaccines.

  • Diagnosis and understanding of diseases through genetic insights.

12.8 Transformation of Agriculture

• GMOs:

  • Organisms that have acquired genes through artificial methods, often termed transgenic organisms if genes are transferred across species.

  • Widespread use in essential crop plants to enhance yield and resistance.

12.9 Ethical and Health Considerations

• Concerns with GMOs & DNA Technologies:

  • Ongoing investigation into potential risks to human health and environmental safety regarding the use of DNA technologies.

DNA Profiling

12.11 DNA Profiles and Forensics

• DNA Profiling:

  • Transformed forensic science by enabling the determination of whether DNA samples originate from the same individual.

12.12 PCR Methodology

• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR):

  • A technique to amplify DNA samples efficiently using specific primers to generate billions of copies of targeted sequences from minute samples.

12.13 Gel Electrophoresis

• Separation of DNA Molecules:

  • Gel electrophoresis sorts DNA based on size and charge, crucial for various applications in DNA technology.

12.15 Forensic Applications of DNA Profiling

• Uses in Forensics:

  • Solving crimes, establishing paternity, identifying victims.

  • Acts as a tool for both proving guilt and determining innocence in legal cases.