Genetic Technologies: Applications and Ethics

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Questions and Answers

A researcher aims to insert a specific human gene into a bacterial plasmid. Which enzyme is MOST crucial for accurately cutting both the human DNA containing the gene of interest AND the bacterial plasmid to ensure proper insertion?

Polymerase, as it amplifies the gene.
DNA ligase, as it seals the gene into the plasmid.
A specific restriction enzyme, as it recognizes and cuts specific DNA sequences. (correct)
Reverse transcriptase, as it synthesizes DNA from an RNA template.

Gene drives are a genetic technology that can spread a modified gene through a population rapidly. While this technology holds promise for eradicating diseases like malaria, what is a primary ethical concern associated with its use?

The potential for unforeseen ecological consequences and irreversible alterations to ecosystems. (correct)
The risk of creating new diseases due to the rapid mutation rate of modified genes.
The high cost of developing gene drive technologies, limiting their accessibility to developing nations.
The limited effectiveness of gene drives in targeting specific populations.

Golden Rice is a genetically modified crop engineered to produce beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. What is the PRIMARY benefit of this technology in addressing public health concerns?

Increasing the yield of rice crops in drought-prone areas.
Improving the nutritional value of rice to combat vitamin A deficiency in populations where rice is a staple food. (correct)
Enhancing the resistance of rice plants to common pests and diseases.
Reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers in rice cultivation.

How might the widespread adoption of genetically modified crops that are resistant to herbicides impact biodiversity in agricultural ecosystems?

Decreased biodiversity as herbicide-resistant crops allow for more effective weed control, reducing plant diversity. (B) Signup and view all the answers

CRISPR-Cas9 technology allows for precise gene editing in living organisms. What is a significant limitation of this technology that researchers are actively working to overcome?

The potential for off-target effects, where the CRISPR system edits genes other than the intended target. (C) Signup and view all the answers

A biotechnology company is developing a genetically modified salmon that grows much faster than wild salmon. What is a potential ecological risk associated with the introduction of this fast-growing salmon into natural ecosystems?

Disruption of food webs and competition with native salmon populations, potentially leading to a decline in native species. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is a genetic technology used to screen embryos for genetic disorders before implantation during in vitro fertilization (IVF). What is a key ethical consideration associated with the use of PGD?

The possibility of selecting embryos based on non-medical traits, leading to designer babies. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does the use of genetic engineering to create insect-resistant crops potentially reduce the need for broad-spectrum insecticides, and what is a potential environmental benefit of this reduction?

By enhancing the crops' natural defenses against insects, minimizing harm to non-target insect species and reducing chemical pollution. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is using recombinant DNA technology to produce insulin in bacteria. After successfully inserting the human insulin gene into a bacterial plasmid, what is the next crucial step to ensure the bacteria produce the insulin protein?

Providing the bacteria with appropriate growth conditions and inducing gene expression to promote insulin production. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant social implication of genetic testing for inherited diseases, such as Huntington's disease, considering that there is currently no cure?

The potential for discrimination based on genetic predispositions in employment and insurance, as well as psychological distress for individuals who test positive. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences, vital for creating recombinant DNA.

Plasmid

A circular DNA molecule used as a vector to carry foreign genetic material into a cell.