Genetics and Biotechnology Fundamentals

Key Concepts in Genetics

• Gene: A hereditary unit of information; the control unit of a certain character.
• Phenotype: The expressed character, such as plant height or the color of peas.
• Genotype: The hereditary factors received from parents.
• Chromosomes: During cell mitosis, chromatin condenses into filaments known as chromosomes. Humans possess 23 pairs of chromosomes.
• DNA: A molecule that constitutes genetic material and carries hereditary information.
• Central Dogma: The primary pathway establishing how genetic information is stored in DNA and used to synthesize proteins.

Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering

Biotechnology involves techniques used in medicine and biology to create commercial products and improve human health.

Biotechnology Tools

• Restriction Enzymes: Enzymes capable of cutting DNA at specific sequences.
• DNA Ligases: Enzymes that allow the connection of DNA strands via molecular bonds.
• Plasmids: Used to transport and copy genetic material; they facilitate the transformation of bacteria such as Escherichia coli.

Applications and Techniques

• Protein and Insulin Production: The insulin gene is joined with a plasmid to create recombinant DNA. This is introduced into bacteria, which then reproduce and produce insulin.
• Transgenic Organisms: Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) created through procedures that have produced super-degrading bacteria, pest-resistant plants (against insects), and bacteria that produce biodegradable plastics.
• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): A technique that allows for the rapid amplification of DNA samples.

Advanced Medical Applications

Stem Cells

Stem cells are non-differentiated cells that can be converted into other types of tissue. They can be obtained from embryos, the umbilical cord (navel), or the intestines. There are several types:

• Embryonic Stem Cells: Derived from excess embryos.
• Adult Stem Cells: Extracted from the umbilical cord or intestines.
• Induced Stem Cells: Created by extracting and reprogramming adult skin cells.

Cloning and Gene Therapy

• Clones: Identical copies of living things.
• Genetic Therapy: A special technique used to remove a defective gene and replace it with a healthy one.