Decoding Genetics: DNA, GMOs, and the Human Genome

Key milestones in genetics include:

• James Watson & Francis Crick (1953): Discovery of the helical structure of DNA.
• Gregor Mendel: Pioneering work in Mendelian genetics.
• Genetic Engineering: Development of techniques to manipulate genes.
• Human Genome Project (HGP): Identifying all the genes of a living being.

Steps in Reading the Genetic Code

1. Separation of the two helical chains.
2. Transcription.
3. Using the Genetic Code.
4. Formation of protein-based amino acids.

Genetically Engineered Foods (GMOs)

Genetically engineered foods are obtained through GMOs and were tagged in 2004, with the following exceptions:

• GM foods with less than 0.9% GMO content.
• Products of second or third generations.
• GM foods that use microorganisms for fermentation.

Genetic Engineering

Genetic engineering involves techniques that allow the isolation, modification, and expression of genetic material into another organism, creating:

• Transgenic organisms
• Transgenic plants
• Transgenic animals
• Microorganisms (MGM)

How is Genetic Engineering Achieved?

1. Use of restriction enzymes.
2. PCR technique.
3. DNA pasting using ligases.
4. Cloning technique.

Human Genome Project (HGP)

The Human Genome Project started in 1990 and was designed in two parts:

• Identifying existing genes.
• Determining the exact sequence of nucleotides.

5% of the annual budget was devoted to ethical, legal, and social implications. In 1996, Craig Venter founded Celera Genomics, which began genome sequencing in 1999 using a different strategy and powerful computers.

Completion of the HGP

The project was completed on June 26, 2000. Eight months later, a simultaneous presentation of the two drafts was made to ensure the information was useful to the entire international scientific community.

How was the HGP Achieved?

1. Use of restriction enzymes.
2. PCR technique.
3. DNA pasting using ligases.
4. Cloning technique.

Applications of GMOs and Genetic Engineering

• Evolutionary, historical, and archaeological studies.
• Fingerprinting for identification.
• Diagnosis of diseases and gene therapy (introducing foreign DNA) in healthcare.
• Use of GM foods.
• Obtaining recombinant polyvalent vaccines (antibodies obtained by genetic engineering).
• Applications in agriculture and livestock.
• Collection of cloned organisms.
• Environmental applications.

Biotechnology

Biotechnology involves the use of living organisms or their products for commercial and/or industrial purposes.

Risks of Biotechnology

• Loss of genetic diversity.
• Transfer of genes to other wildlife or crops.
• Adverse health effects.

Gene Therapy

Gene therapy uses genes to cure or alleviate diseases, both inherited and acquired.

The definitive cure of a genetic disease will be achieved by correcting the cause, i.e., by replacing the mutated gene's DNA with normal DNA.