10 Questions
What is the primary focus of genetic engineering?
Manipulating genetic material
Which process can generate a billion copies of the desired DNA segment?
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Electrophoresis separates molecules based on which characteristic?
Presence of charges
Which technique involves the use of a suitable vector to transfer a gene to a new cell?
Gene Cloning
What is a common alternative name for genetic engineering?
Recombinant DNA technology
What characteristic allows DNA to migrate to the anode during electrophoresis?
Negatively charged nature
Which instrument is NOT typically used in isolating and characterizing macromolecules?
PCR
In what year was the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) discovered?
1985
What is introduced in genetic engineering to manipulate genes?
New genes
Which combination technique is used in separating DNA fragments?
Agarose gel electrophoresis, PAGE, SDS PAGE
Study Notes
Genetic Engineering
- Deals with alteration of genetic material (DNA and RNA)
- Involves manipulation of genetic material towards a desired end in a directed and predetermined way, using "in vitro" process
- Can involve repairing defective genes, replacing defective genes, artificially synthesizing new genes, transferring genes, introducing new genes, and manipulating genes for improvement of living organisms
Recombinant DNA Technology
- Also known as gene cloning
- Defined as the formation of new combinations of heritable material by the insertion of nucleic acid molecules produced outside the cells into a host organism
Gene Cloning/rDNA Technology
- Basic requirements include instruments and devices such as gel permeation, ion exchange chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and electrophoresis
- Techniques used include electrophoresis, agarose gel electrophoresis, PAGE, SDS PAGE, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
Electrophoresis
- Separation of charged molecules by applying an electric field
- Used for separation of DNA, RNA, and proteins
- DNA, being negatively charged, migrates to anode, and smaller fragments move faster and separate faster
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
- Amplification of gene of interest through PCR
- Discovery by Kary Mullis in 1985
- Generates a billion copies of desired segment of DNA or RNA in a few hours with high accuracy and specificity
- Completely automated process with automatic thermal cycles for denaturation and renaturation of double-stranded DNA
Technique of Gene Cloning and rDNA Technology
- Involves transferring a gene of known function from its normal location into a new cell via a suitable vector
- Transferred gene is replicated normally and passed on to the next progeny
Learn about genetic engineering, its definition, and how it differs from chemical engineering. Understand the manipulation of genetic material and its applications.
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