Biology: Section 13-1 Review

Biology: Section 13-1 Review

1.) Define genetic engineering.

Genetic engineering is the application of molecular genetics for practical purposes. Genetic engineering can be used to identify genes for specific traits or to transfer genes for a specific trait from one organism to another.

2.) What role do restriction enzymes play in genetic engineering?

Restriction enzymes are bacterial enzymes that are used to cut DNA molecules into more manageable pieces. Restriction enzymes recognize specific sequences of nucleotides. They then cut the DNA at a specific site within the sequence.

3.) How do sticky ends function?

A single-chain of DNA, called sticky ends are created on each DNA segment cut by the restriction enzyme. The function of a sticky end is to readily bind to complementary chains of DNA. Thus, pieces of DNA that have been cut with the same restriction enzyme can bind together to form a new sequence of nucleotides.

4.) Explain the role of cloning vectors in genetic engineering.

The role of a cloning vector is to serve as a carrier that is used to clone a gene and transfer it from one organism to another. Many bacteria containing a cloning vector are known as plasmids, a ring of DNA found in a bacterium in addition to its main chromosome.

5.) What steps are used to produce insulin using recombinant DNA and bacteria?

The combination of DNA from two or more sources is called recombinant DNA. Inserting a donor gene, such as a bacterial plasmid, results in a recombinant DNA molecule. Recombinant DNA is produced when a plasmid is removed from a bacteria cell and a donor gene is inserted into the plasmid. To apply this to insulin, this would result in its mass production.