12.6 DNA modification

• Biologie
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 3

12.6 DNA modification

Introduction

Learning objectives

Instruction DNA modification

Assignments

End of class

How did a human gene end up in the DNA of Herman the Bull, according to you?

Learning objectives

You will learn why and in what way humans alter the DNA of organisms.

You will learn why certain opponents disapprove of DNA modification.

DNA

gene therapy = modifying genes in order to cure a patient

Genetic modification

= the altering of an organism's DNA

genetically modified organism (GMO) = organism in which the DNA has been altered by humans

transgenic = if the new gene originates from another species

NL vertaling:

Producten van transgene bacteriën

• Stollingsfactoren in hemofiliepatiënten
• Medicijnen en hormonen
• Biobrandstof van groenafval
• Aspartaam, een zoetstof in light dranken

DNA modification

1. You ‘cut out’ the desired gene from the DNA of another organism, using a special enzyme.
2. You insert this gene into another cell by:

    - injecting the gene into the cell nucleus

    - using a vector as a means of transport (virus, plasmid, projectiles)

Viral vectors

A virus brings the DNA to a host cell. 

Plasmids

Plasmid = circular piece of DNA that is able to replicate its own DNA independently

Used to insert a gene into a bacterium

Projectiles

Shooting very small golden projectiles, covered with DNA,  into a cell nucleus.

Normal rice: No vitamin A   Transgenic rice: contains vitamin A 

Vitamin A deficiency causes blindness and death

Objections to genetic modification

• The individual character and the well-being of  animals are affected by genetic modification.
  
• Unexpected effects may occur (e.g. plagues)
• The pollen of genetically modified plants can also end up in traditional crops. The offspring then contains the new genes, even though you might not want it to.
  
• Transgenic food can pose a threat to our health. 
• New illnesses that could be transmitted from animals to humans could develop

What?	Read: 12.6 Make: assignments 1-14
How?	In your book. You may whisper if you want to discuss an assignment with your neighbour.
Help?	Try to answer the question together. Raise your hand if you can't figure it out together.
Time?	15 minutes
Finished?	Make a summary of chapter 12
Proceeds	You have finished your homework! Well done!