Biotechnology Essentials: Key Concepts & Applications

Key Biotechnology Definitions

• Gene: A small segment of DNA that instructs the body on how to produce a specific protein.
• Vector: An agent, generally used as a biological medium for transmitting an organism or genetic material to another.
• Restriction Enzyme: Enzymes that cut DNA at specific target points.

Gene Transfer Process

1. Location and isolation of the gene to be transferred (using restriction enzymes).
2. Selection of the appropriate vector.
3. Union of DNA (gene) into the vector DNA.
4. Transfer of the vector agent to the host cell.
5. Multiplication of the transgenic organism.
6. Purification of the desired substance.

Artificial Insemination

A reproductive technique where sperm are collected and deposited into the vagina during ovulation.

Human Genome Project: Goals & Future

• Original Goals: Identify and locate disease-causing genes on chromosomes, sequence the entire human genome, and determine the function of specific genes.
• Current Development: Focus on developing diagnostics for genetic disease risk and advancing pharmacological therapies, moving towards personalized medicine tailored for each patient.

Gene Therapy

A therapeutic technique that inserts a functional gene into a patient's cells to correct a human genetic defect or deficiency, or to give the cell a new function.

Relationship to the Human Genome Project (HGP)

Understanding the function of each gene, as revealed by the HGP, allows for the modification of genes causing genetic diseases.

Cloning Technologies

• Reproductive Cloning: The objective is to create a genetically identical copy of an organism, specifically a human being.
• Therapeutic Cloning: Aims to isolate stem cells that can regenerate damaged or diseased tissue from a patient.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Process

1. Hormonal treatment to stimulate ovule production.
2. Eggs are retrieved via peritoneoscopy.
3. The egg and sperm are joined in the laboratory.
4. The embryo is transferred to the woman.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A technique that can replicate specific fragments of DNA, making many copies.

Application

If a small DNA sample is found at a crime scene, PCR can multiply the DNA, allowing for identification.

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)

These are derived from adult cells, such as skin cells (fibroblasts), and reprogrammed to an embryonic stem cell-like state.

Genetically Modified (GM) Foods

Foods derived from species that have had genes artificially added, deleted, or modified using biotechnology and genetic engineering. These techniques can enhance food quality and characteristics.

Advantages

• Improved taste and nutritional value.
• Enhanced resistance to pests and diseases.
• Increased crop yields.

Disadvantages & Concerns

• Potential transfer of antibiotic resistance genes to bacteria.
• Possible allergic reactions in consumers.
• Potential for GM crops to outcompete conventional plants or wild species, impacting biodiversity.

Biotechnology Insights & Clarifications

• Transgenic Milk Production: Genetically engineered cows can produce transgenic milk if they are modified with the relevant gene.
• Genetic Information Transmission: In cellular processes like cloning, only the nucleus of the cell transmits the core genetic information.

Stem Cells

• Embryonic Stem Cells: Obtained from cultured masses of undifferentiated cells found in the inner cell mass of the early human embryo.
• Adult Stem Cells: Undifferentiated cells found within differentiated tissues, serving as a repair system for the body.