Gene Technology

Manipulating the code

Human Genome Project 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)

Remove “bad” gene and insert “good” gene or…

Combining DNA from 2 different organisms Requires recognition of coding sequences of

gene, including promotors and enhancers

Centaur – half man, half horse

Tools Genomic maps of DNA Genomic libraries Restriction Enzymes (DNA scissors) cut

at known sequences in specific places (pallindromes)

Cloning vector Surrogate eggs, mothers, or bacterial plasmid

Benefits of transplanted Genes 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 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 Restriction Fragment Length

Polymorphism 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 Moral and ethical implications of genetic

engineering Cloning a super race Frankenfoods Bringing back the dead What are YOUR concerns?