Biotechnology

Using knowledge of the DNA code for practical applications

Genetic Engineering

The process of making changes in the DNA code of living organisms

Example:Inserting a gene thatGlows in the dark.

How does this work?

How can we insert genes?Make Sticky Ends

Cut Here

And Here

THEN

Paste thisInto this

Genetically Engineered

Products

Milk from CowsEngineeredTo produce Specific proteins

Corn engineered With its ownpesticide

Rice engineeredTo produceAll neededVitamins & minerals

Production of Human Insulin

• Insulin regulates the blood sugar level.

• The gene for human insulin is inserted into yeast or bacteria, from which large quantities of the human insulin are manufactured

http://publications.nigms.nih.gov/genetics/images/ch1_diagram.gif

http://www.ingenious.org.uk/media/4.0_SAC/webimages/1032/1/10321271_3.jpg

Other DNA Technology

• DNA fingerprinting– Forensics or Crime– Paternity cases (or long

lost relatives)– Endangered species trade

• Human Genome Project– Map of all 30,000 human

genes– Compare diseases,

treatments and genes for best therapy

What is this?

DNA Fingerprinting

• Every individual (except identical twins) has a unique DNA fingerprint

• Once the DNA has been cut, it can be separated into bands (based on their size) by using gel electrophoresis.

• Example:– solve the mystery of It Takes a Lickin’ by visiting the

following website: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/sheppard/lab01.html