General Biology 2

Genetic Engineering

Genetic engineering is the method of modifying an organism's genetic structure by using recombinant DNA (rDNA)
technology. Traditionally, by regulating breeding and choosing offspring with desirable characteristics, humans have
implicitly manipulated genomes (National Human Genome Research Institute).
In Recombinant DNA technology, DNA molecules are inserted into the host organism from two separate organisms
to create novel genetic combinations that are important to science such as medicine and agriculture. Since the gene
is the focus of this technology, laboratory geneticists' central aim is to separate, classify, and modify genes
(Britannica 2021).

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) and Ribonucleic Acid are the two main nucleic acids. In all living species, DNA, the
genetic material is present and can be found in cells of microorganisms (ex. Bacteria) and animals, while RNA is
involved in protein synthesis.

Recall what you know about DNA and RNA then identify the differences between the two. Write your answer on the
space provided below.
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LESSON 1: GENETIC ENGINEERING

What is genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering is the direct modification of an organism’s genome, which is the list of specific traits (genes)
stored in the DNA. Changing the genome enables engineers to give desirable properties to different organisms.
Organisms created by genetic engineering are called genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

STAGES OF GENETIC ENGINEERING

1. Identify the section of DNA that contains the required gene from the source chromosome.
2. Extract the required gene.
3. Insert required gene into vector / bacterial plasmid.
4. Insert plasmid into the host cell.
5. Grow transformed cells to produce a GMO.

What is the GMO process?

• All genetic changes affect the protein synthesis of the organism.
• By changing which proteins are produced, genetic engineers can affect the overall traits of the organism.
• Genetic modification can be completed by a number of different methods:
 Inserting new genetic material randomly or in targeted locations
 Direct replacement of genes (recombination)
 Removal of genes
 Mutation of existing genes

Bacteria are the most common GMOs because their simple structure permits easy manipulation of their DNA. One of
the most interesting uses for genetically modified bacteria is the production of hydrocarbons (plastics and fuels)
usually only found in fossil fuels.
• Cyanobacteria have been modified to produce plastic (polyethylene) and fuel (butanol) as
byproducts of photosynthesis
• E. Coli bacteria have been modified to produce diesel fuel

Think About It
Directions: Answer the following questions as best as you can.

1. What applications does genetic engineering have in different fields?

2. How might genetic engineering modify plants to solve everyday problems?
3. Could genetic engineering be used to modify any animals to solve problems?