What is the first step in genetic engineering when copying a useful gene from organism to another?
A useful gene is cut from one organism's chromosome using enzymes.
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Second step in this genetic engineering...
Enzymes are then used to cut another organism's chromosome and then to insert the useful gene.
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Name one way in which scientists use this method of genetic engineering.
To insert the human insulin gene into bacteria to produce human insulin.
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How can this method of genetic engineering be used in animals and plants?
To transfer useful genes into animals and plants at the very early stages of their development so they develop useful characteristics.
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How have GM (genetically modified) crops had their genes modified?
To make them resistant to viruses, insects or herbicides.
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How have sheep been genetically engineered?
To produce substances, like drugs, in their milk that can be used to treat human diseases.
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What is gene therapy?
Idea of treating genetic disorders caused by faulty genes by inserting working genes into sufferers.
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Describe one of the negative issues involved in genetic engineering.
The long terms effects: changing a person's genes might accidentally created unplanned problems, which could then get passed on to future generations.
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How can GM crops potentially reduce farmland biodiversity?
Growing GM crops will affect the number of weeds and flowers (and so population of insects) that live in and around the crops.
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What is the issue of safety with GM crops?
People are worried they may develop allergies to the food - although there's probably no more risk for this than for eating usual foods.
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What is the problem with transplanted genes in plants in terms of weeds?
Transplanted genes may get out into the natural environment. Therefore, the herbicide resistance gene may be picked up by weeds, creating a new 'superweed' variety'.
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What is an economic benefit of GM crops?
They can increase the yield of a crop, making more food.
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What is a medical/ethical benefit of GM crops?
People living in developing nations often lack nutrients in their diets. GM crops could be engineered to contain the nutrient that's missing. E.g. testing that golden rice contains beta-carotene, lack of this substance causes blindness.
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What evidence is there in favour of GM crops?
They are being grown elsewhere in the world often without any problems.
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Other cards in this set
Card 2
Front
Second step in this genetic engineering...
Back
Enzymes are then used to cut another organism's chromosome and then to insert the useful gene.
Card 3
Front
Name one way in which scientists use this method of genetic engineering.
Back
Card 4
Front
How can this method of genetic engineering be used in animals and plants?
Back
Card 5
Front
How have GM (genetically modified) crops had their genes modified?
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