Genetic Engineering and Genetic Therapy

Genetic Engineering and Genetic TherapyWhat is genetic engineeringGenetic engineering is any process by which genetic material (the building blocks of heredity) is changed in such a way as to make possible the production of new substances or new functions.

Word you need to know.DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)GeneGene splicingGenetic codeHost cellHuman gene therapy (HGT)PlasmidRecombinant DNA research (rDNA research)VectorHow do they do it?DNA sequencing

Gene splicing

Genetically modified engineering

Gene therapy

DNA Analysis InstrumentsThermal Cycler

DNA Probe

Electric Fields and Dyes

DNA Sequencing

DNA SplicingThe process by which genes are cut apart and put back together to provide them with some new function.

DNA splicing basic stepsStep 1: Isolating or removing the wanted genes from the DNA helix. This gene is manipulated according to the needs in the labs.Step 2: Preparing a medium which would be placed inside the body (the isolated gene is inserted here).Step 3: Inserting the prepared medium into the body of the organism.Application of Genetic EngineeringApplication to plants.

Application to animals.

Application to humans.Application to plantsQuick productionSize enhancementIncrease in immunity to the weather

Application to animalsIncrease in productionGrowth enhancement

Application to humansHuman gene therapy

Controversies about Genetic EngineeringHealth issues

Genetically modified organisms contaminate existing seeds with their altered material.

GMOs are not the answer for global food security.

Genetically engineered foods have not been proven to be safe.

Genetic therapyGene therapy is an experimental technique that uses genes to treat or prevent disease. In the future, this technique may allow doctors to treat a disorder by inserting a gene into a patients cells instead of using drugs or surgery. Researchers are testing several approaches to gene therapy,Replacing a mutated gene that causes disease with a healthy copy of the gene.

Inactivating, or knocking out, a mutated gene that is functioning improperly.

Introducing a new gene into the body to help fight a disease.

Gene Therapy RisksUnwanted immune system reaction.

Targeting the wrong cells.

Possibility of causing a tumor.

Has to be delivered using a carrier, called a vector. The most common gene therapy vectors are viruses because they can recognize certain cells and carry genetic material into the cells' genes.Gene Therapy RisksUnwanted immune system reaction.

Targeting the wrong cells.

Possibility of causing a tumor.

Has to be delivered using a carrier, called a vector. The most common gene therapy vectors are viruses because they can recognize certain cells and carry genetic material into the cells' genes.Gene Therapy