Application of Recombinant DNA

Recombinant DNA – molecules of DNA from two different species that are inserted into host organisms to produce new genetic
combination that are valued to science medicine, agriculture and Industry. Illustration below show the Application of Recombinant DNA in
the field of Medicine, Agriculture,
and Food industry.

Medicine – Recombinant DNA technology has also proven important to the production of vaccines and protein therapies such
as human insulin, interferon and human growth hormones.
Example: Production of protein for replacement therapy (e.g. insulin) and disease prevention (e.g. vaccines).
Agriculture – Recombinant DNA technology is widely used in agriculture to create genetically modified organisms(GMOs)
that produce genetically modified crops.
Example: Bt corn, a genetically modified maize that are widely used by farmers to eliminate corn borers.
Food Industry – Recombinant DNA Technology can be used for processing quality fermented food such as cheese, pickles,
wines and beers.
Example: High quality fermented foods such as cheeses, pickles, wines and beers.

Activity:
A. Directions: Determine the application of recombinant DNA. Identify each situation and tell whether it is under Medicine,
Agriculture and Food Industry. Write your answer on the space provided.
1. Genetically modified maize.
2. Modified human growth hormones.
3. Improved nutritional value.
4. High quality fermented food products.
5. Disease prevention (e.g. Vaccines).
6. Altered oil Content
7. Herbicide resistance
8. Diagnostic Test ( e.g. monoclonal antibodies)
9. Delayed Fruit Ripening. _
10. Pollen Control. _

B. Directions: Use your basic knowledge on recombinant DNA technology to answer the question or you may refer to your favorite online
browser for your additional information and references of your answer.

1. What are the advantages of using recombinant DNA to produce human hormones such as insulin and somatotropin?