Gene Engineering


Historic:

  • selective breeding of agricultural species
    . . -"How-To" Manual, dated 5,000 B.P.
    . . . -select for desirable traits (directional selection)
    . . -hybridize wild plant species
    . . . -create 'new species' (disruptive selection)
    . . . -corn, wheat, etc.

    Mendelian:



  • Molecular:

  • Insert a particular fragment into a DNA molecule
    . . -human enzymes inserted into bacteria
    . . . -insulin into E. coli
    . . . -deficient enzyme for cystic fibrosis into Pneumococcus
  • reverse genetics - introduce "designer" mutations to stem cells
    . . -hypothesis: correct for enzyme deficiency diseases
    . . -hypothesis: add nutritional qualities to crop plants
    . . -hypothesis: add disease/pest resistance to crop plants
  • newspaper:
    . . - "franken-foods"
    . . - "designer babies"



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    © 2004 Prof. LaFrance, Ancilla College