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Explore genetic technologies such as Gel Electrophoresis, Transgenic Organisms, Bacterial Transformation, Human Genome Project, and Stem Cell Research. Understand how these methods are applied in paternity testing, gene therapy, and more. Delve into the ethical concerns surrounding genetic research.
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Chapter 13: Genetic Technology • Gel Electrophoresis—Creates a DNA fingerprint • Uses restriction enzymes to cut DNA at specific sites • DNA fragments are then added to the gel • Gel is placed in a chamber, covered with buffer
An electric current runs through the gel • Fragments travel through the gel at different rates: • Small fragments travel further (lighter) • Long fragments do not travel as far (heavier)
Applications • Paternity/Maternity Testing • Identification of: • Criminals • Human remains • Endangered species
Transgenic Organisms • Organisms that contain genes from a different organism • Applications: • Plants that are frost resistant • Bacteria that can produce human insulin • Animals can be used to study human disease
Bacterial Transformation • Desired gene is inserted into a bacterial plasmid • Bacteria are stimulated to take in the plasmid • The bacteria can then produce the desired product • Ex. Insulin
Human Genome Project • Effort to map and sequence all human genes • Has raised ethical concerns • Ex. Stem cell research, gene therapy, genetically modified organisms
Applications: • Diagnosis of Genetic Disorders • Gene therapy (CF & SCID) • DNA fingerprinting
Cell Specialization • Cells differentiate because of DNA expression and gene activity. • All cells contain the same DNA and the potential to become any type of cell • However, differentiation can not be reversed • All of our body cells have the same chromosomes and DNA
The parts of DNA that are activated determine the function of specialized cells • Different parts of the genetic instructions are used in different types of cells • Genes are influenced by the cell’s environment • Ex. Chemical signals released by other cells • Ex. Radiation and other mutagens
Stem cells are unspecialized cells that have the ability to differentiate into one or more types of specialized cells. Embryonic cells that have not yet differentiated are called embryonic stem cells Stem cells found in organisms (ex. bone marrow) are called adult stem cells
Both types of stem cells can differentiate into specialized cells under the right lab conditions. • Applications: • Currently: stem cell transplant (bone marrow) for cancer • Future: treatment of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and other nervous system disorders • Future: treatment of Type I diabetes in Children