Genetic engineering Flashcards – AQA GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy (8464) — Biology — Higher

What is a genetically modified (GM) crop?

A crop whose genes have been modified to give it desired characteristics.

What four kinds of desired characteristic can GM crops have?

Resistance to disease, insect attack or herbicides, or production of larger or better-quality fruits.

How can desired characteristics affect GM crop production?

They can reduce crop losses or improve production; GM crops generally have increased yields.

How can changes in herbicide use associated with GM crops affect wildlife?

They can affect wild plants and the insects that depend on them.

What human health concern do some people raise about eating GM crops?

They question whether the health effects have been fully explored.

Does concern about a possible harmful effect of GM crops establish that harm occurs?

No. A concern about a possible effect does not by itself establish harm.

What are the main steps in producing human insulin using genetically engineered bacteria?

Insert a human insulin gene into bacteria; the bacteria express it to produce insulin, which is collected, purified and checked.

When diabetes is treated with insulin from genetically engineered bacteria, are the patient's cells genetically modified?

No. The bacteria, not the patient's cells, are modified.

What is the advantage of genetically engineered bacteria in terms of insulin supply?

They can produce insulin in large quantities.

What source of insulin can be avoided by using genetically engineered bacteria?

Insulin extracted from animal organs.

Why must insulin produced by genetically engineered bacteria be purified and checked before use?

Contamination or impurities could harm patients.

How might introducing a working gene into affected cells help treat an inherited disorder?

The cells may produce a functional protein, reducing the disorder’s effects.

What are two limitations of introducing a working gene to treat an inherited disorder?

It may not reach enough relevant cells, or its effect may not last.

What are two potential risks of genetic modification for inherited disorders?

Immune reactions to a delivery vector and unintended changes to DNA.

Why do some people object to genetic modification of embryos?

Changes could be inherited by future generations, and their long-term consequences may be uncertain.