Biotechnology to Treat Disease 2024

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of using a vector in recombinant DNA technology?

To degrade unwanted DNA sequences

To introduce desired DNA into a host cell (correct)

To enhance cellular metabolism

To replicate the entire bacterial genome

Which enzyme is crucial for joining the gene of interest to the vector?

DNA ligase (correct)

RNA ligase

Restriction enzyme

DNA polymerase

What is the significance of plasmids in bacterial cells?

They provide a mechanism for DNA repair

They increase the size of the main genome

They only function as templates for RNA synthesis

They replicate independently and can be exchanged between cells (correct)

Why is recombinant DNA technology particularly important in medicine?

It enables the manufacture of large quantities of pure proteins Signup and view all the answers

What is a major risk associated with using naturally derived hormones in medicine?

They can be impure and transmit diseases Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key uses of biotechnology in treating disease?

Gene manipulation to replace faulty genes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Human Genome Project?

To map the location of genes in chromosomes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a benefit of recombinant DNA technology?

Developing new musical compositions Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a chromosomal genome from a mitochondrial genome?

Chromosomal genomes contain all genetic information in chromosomes Signup and view all the answers

How does modern biotechnology help improve food production?

Through the use of gene technology to enhance crop yield Signup and view all the answers

Which component is essential for the production of proteins via recombinant DNA technology?

Foreign DNA introduced into host cells Signup and view all the answers

What role does genetic testing play in modern biotechnology?

It helps in determining the risk of future medical conditions Signup and view all the answers

Which of these diseases could potentially benefit from gene replacement therapy?

Cystic fibrosis Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of restriction endonucleases?

To cut DNA at specific sequences Signup and view all the answers

What type of DNA cut results in fragments with unpaired nucleotides?

Staggered cut Signup and view all the answers

Transgenic organisms are characterized by what feature?

A genome altered by the transfer of genes from another organism Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of DNA ligase in genetic engineering?

To join DNA pieces together Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a palindromic sequence in DNA?

GAATTC Signup and view all the answers

Why do bacteria use restriction enzymes?

To protect against foreign DNA Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about restriction enzymes is true?

They can cut DNA from any organism. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic distinguishes a genetically modified organism (GMO)?

It possesses characteristics not normally found in its species. Signup and view all the answers

What is one advantage of insulin produced by genetically engineered bacteria compared to animal-derived insulin?

It results in fewer side effects. Signup and view all the answers

What led to the development of recombinant Factor VIII for treating haemophilia A?

Risk of viral diseases from donor plasma. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding the use of human Growth Hormone (hGH)?

It is effective for enhancing athletic performance. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the hepatitis B vaccine is true?

It is the first vaccine produced using recombinant DNA technology. Signup and view all the answers

Which technique was primarily used for producing both insulin and hGH for medical applications?

Recombinant DNA technology. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant disadvantage of using recombinant vaccines?

They can be dangerous if not properly tested. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the recombinant Factor VIII significant in the treatment of hemophilia A?

It is free of other plasma proteins. Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributes to the increased supply of hGH produced by genetically engineered E. coli?

The efficiency of bacterial growth rates. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Biotechnology Overview

Biotechnology utilizes cellular processes for product manufacturing, contributing to healthcare, food production, clean energy, and manufacturing efficiency.
Techniques include gene technology for gene alteration, removal, and addition, expanding into genetic testing and tissue engineering.
The Human Genome Project, initiated in 1990, mapped around 21,000 human genes found on chromosomes.

Gene Replacement and Disease Treatment

Gene replacement targets disease treatment and prevention, utilizing gene expression monitoring for diseases, notably cancer.
Genetic tests identify risks for hereditary diseases and conditions through monitoring relevant genes.

Recombinant DNA Technology

Introduces foreign or modified DNA into host cells. Potential for replacing faulty genes, especially in diseases like cystic fibrosis and certain cancers.
Enables production of proteins (e.g., Factor VIII), hormones (e.g., insulin), and vaccines (e.g., Hepatitis B).

DNA Cutting Techniques

Restriction endonucleases act as "molecular scissors" to cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing the DNA segments to be manipulated.
DNA can be cut in two ways:
- Straight Cut: Produces blunt ends.
- Staggered Cut: Creates sticky ends, aiding recombination.

Recombination and Ligation

Utilizes the same restriction enzyme for cut and insert, allowing complementary sticky ends to recombine.
DNA ligase acts like "molecular glue," joining DNA fragments.

Transgenic Organisms

Transgenic organisms have altered genomes due to gene transfers, enabling the expression of the introduced genes.
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) exhibit modified traits not normally found in their species.

Vectors and Cloning

Vectors are DNA molecules transporting genes into cells. Cloning involves cutting DNA, inserting the gene of interest, and ligating it.
Plasmids are circular pieces of DNA in bacteria that can replicate independently, facilitating gene exchange and cloning.

Examples of Recombinant DNA Applications

Significant for disease diagnosis and treatment, enabling the mass production of crucial proteins and hormones.
Historically, substances sourced from animals risked contamination (e.g., Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease from growth hormone).

Specific Recombinant Products

Insulin: Genetically engineered bacteria produce insulin identically to human insulin, reducing side effects compared to animal sources.
Human Growth Hormone (hGH): Produced by genetically modified E. coli, enhances supply but carries risks for misuse and side effects.
Factor VIII: Synthesized via recombinant DNA to treat Hemophilia A without the risk of viral contamination from human plasma.
Vaccines: The first recombinant DNA vaccine was for Hepatitis B (1986); production is costly and safety is paramount due to widespread use.

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Description

Explore the transformative world of biotechnology and its crucial applications in disease treatment. This quiz covers key concepts such as recombinant DNA technology, cellular processes, and the impact of modern biotechnological methods on health and industry. Test your knowledge and understanding of how biotechnology enhances human welfare.