Biotechnology
Using knowledge of the DNA code for practical applications
Genetic Engineering
The process of making changes in the DNA code of living organisms
Example:Inserting a gene thatGlows in the dark.
How does this work?
How can we insert genes?Make Sticky Ends
Cut Here
And Here
THEN
Paste thisInto this
Genetically Engineered
Products
Milk from CowsEngineeredTo produce Specific proteins
Corn engineered With its ownpesticide
Rice engineeredTo produceAll neededVitamins & minerals
Production of Human Insulin
• Insulin regulates the blood sugar level.
• The gene for human insulin is inserted into yeast or bacteria, from which large quantities of the human insulin are manufactured
http://publications.nigms.nih.gov/genetics/images/ch1_diagram.gif
http://www.ingenious.org.uk/media/4.0_SAC/webimages/1032/1/10321271_3.jpg
Other DNA Technology
• DNA fingerprinting– Forensics or Crime– Paternity cases (or long
lost relatives)– Endangered species trade
• Human Genome Project– Map of all 30,000 human
genes– Compare diseases,
treatments and genes for best therapy
What is this?
DNA Fingerprinting
• Every individual (except identical twins) has a unique DNA fingerprint
• Once the DNA has been cut, it can be separated into bands (based on their size) by using gel electrophoresis.
• Example:– solve the mystery of It Takes a Lickin’ by visiting the
following website: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/sheppard/lab01.html