3.5.3

Genetic Modification

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Genetic Modification

The universal nature of the genetic code means that genes can be artificially transferred between species in order to give a species a particular characteristic.

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The genetic code

  • The genetic code is universal.
  • All species use the same genetic code and will produce the same proteins from the same genes.
  • The same mRNA codon codes for the same amino acid in almost every species.
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Genetic modification

  • The universal nature of the genetic code means we are able to insert genes from one species into another and have them produce a protein to give that species a specific trait or characteristic.
  • Some important examples of genetic modification are adding the human insulin gene to bacteria, adding the spider silk gene to goats, and adding the beta carotene gene to rice.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Biology

2Molecular Biology

3Genetics

4Ecology

5Evolution & Biodiversity

6Human Physiology

7AHL: Nucleic Acids

8AHL: Metabolism, Cell Respiration & Photosynthesis

9AHL: Plant Biology

9.1Transport in the Xylem of Plants

9.2Transport in the Phloem of Plants

9.3Growth in Plants

10AHL: Genetics & Evolution

11AHL: Animal Physiology

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