Transcript Gene Technology

Gene Technology
Manipulating the
code
Human Genome Project
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We know human genome is
approx. 30,000 genes & over 6
bill. nucleotide bases
We know sequence of most genes
Genomic library of information
used for potentially lots of cures
Forms of Gene Manipulation
 cloning
 Inducing mutations
 Selective Breeding
 Select parents with desirable
phenotypes– “mass selection”
 hybridization - mating
 offspring express “hybrid vigor”
Liger/Tigon
Liger Information
An average adult male liger can weigh over 900 pounds.
An adult male Siberian tiger can grow to an average
weight of 500 pounds,
An adult African lion can average 450 pounds.
The reproductive process that creates a liger leaves
out the growth inhibitor gene present in the male
lion and the female tiger, and the result is an enormous
offspring that has the best physical and mental
characteristics of the parents.
It is important to note that there are no documented cases
of ligers appearing naturally in the wild. Lions and tigers
do not share territory and the chances of contact between
the two groups is slim due to their differing natures.
Direct genetic manipulation –
Recombinant DNA; Transgenic
organisms (chimeras)
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Remove “bad” gene and insert “good”
gene or…
Combining DNA from 2 different
organisms
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Requires recognition of coding
sequences of gene, including promotors
and enhancers
Centaur – half man, half
horse
Tools
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Genomic maps of DNA
Genomic libraries
Restriction Enzymes (DNA scissors) cut
at known sequences in specific places
(pallindromes)
Cloning vector
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Surrogate eggs, mothers, or bacterial plasmid
Benefits of transplanted Genes
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Make drugs easily & cheaply, i.e.
insulin
Make vaccines
New and useful chimeras – genetically
engineered crops for disease or insect
resistance, increased yield
Save DNA from endangered species
Gene therapy for genetic disorders
DNA Fingerprinting
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DNA is unique to each individual
By comparing DNA found in blood
samples, tissue samples, etc. , we can use
DNA as a way to identify people,
criminals, etc.
Can determine genetic defects
RFLP Analysis
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Restriction Fragment Length
Polymorphism
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Extract DNA & make copies
 PCR or polymerase chain reaction
fragment with restriction enzymes
Separate fragments in gel
electrophoresis
Photograph and compare - 5 banding
images is a match
Genethics
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Moral and ethical implications of genetic
engineering
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Cloning a super race
Frankenfoods
Bringing back the dead
What are YOUR concerns?