19.1.1

Recombinant DNA & Genetic Engineering

Test yourself

Principles of Genetic Engineering

Recombinant DNA is where fragments of foreign DNA are inserted into other sections of DNA.

Illustrative background for Universal codeIllustrative background for Universal code ?? "content

Universal code

  • DNA is made from a sequence of four bases (A, T, C, G).
  • Every organism uses the four bases as the genetic code to produce proteins.
  • This means that DNA can be considered a universal code.
Illustrative background for Recombinant DNAIllustrative background for Recombinant DNA ?? "content

Recombinant DNA

  • The fact that the genetic code is universal means that any section of DNA can be taken from one organism and placed inside another.
  • Once the DNA has been inserted, it is then transcribed and translated to produce proteins.
  • Transcription and translation are also universal processes.
  • The process of transferring sections of DNA produces recombinant DNA.
Illustrative background for FragmentsIllustrative background for Fragments ?? "content

Fragments

  • The sections of DNA that are transferred are called fragments.
  • The organism that has received fragments of DNA is said to be transgenic.

Uses

Recombinant DNA has a variety of applications. These applications can be hugely beneficial in combating a number of humanitarian issues. These include:

Illustrative background for Genetically modified cropsIllustrative background for Genetically modified crops ?? "content

Genetically modified crops

  • Recombinant DNA can be used to genetically modify crops to improve their yield.
  • Traits that can be improved include -
    • Resistance to disease.
    • Tolerance to the application of herbicides and pesticides.
    • Tolerance of adverse environmental conditions (e.g. drought).
Illustrative background for Genetically modified livestockIllustrative background for Genetically modified livestock ?? "content

Genetically modified livestock

  • Recombinant DNA can be used by farmers to make the production of meat more economically viable.
  • Traits that can be improved include -
    • Grow faster and larger.
    • Resistance to disease.
Illustrative background for Increased nutritional valueIllustrative background for Increased nutritional value ?? "content

Increased nutritional value

  • Recombinant DNA can be used to increase the nutritional value of food.
    • E.g. Rice has been genetically modified to contain Vitamin A. Vitamin A is a common deficiency in Asian countries where rice is widely consumed.
Illustrative background for Treating diseasesIllustrative background for Treating diseases ?? "content

Treating diseases

  • Recombinant DNA can be used to produce medicine and hormones to treat diseases.
    • E.g. Individuals with type I diabetes used to be given pig insulin to control their blood sugar levels. Now human insulin is created using genetically modified bacteria.
Illustrative background for IndustryIllustrative background for Industry ?? "content

Industry

  • Recombinant DNA can be used to manufacture enzymes.
  • These enzymes can be used in industry.
    • E.g. Rennet is an enzyme traditionally taken from the stomach of young mammals like calves to produce cheese. It is now possible to make rennet using genetically engineered bacteria.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Structure

2Biological Molecules

3Enzymes

4Cell Membranes & Transport

5The Mitotic Cell Cycle

6Nucleic Acids & Protein Synthesis

7Transport in Plants

8Transport in Mammals

9Gas Exchange

10Infectious Diseases

11Immunity

12Energy & Respiration (A2 Only)

13Photosynthesis (A2 Only)

14Homeostasis (A2 Only)

15Control & Coordination (A2 Only)

16Inherited Change (A2 Only)

17Selection & Evolution (A2 Only)

18Classification & Conservation (A2 Only)

19Genetic Technology (A2 Only)

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium