Q.11 What are different achievements of genetic engineering?
Answer:
Various achievements of genetic engineering are as follows:
1) Formation of human insulin
Human insulin gene was transferred into bacteria. The genetically modified bacteria became able to synthesize insulin. Diabetics are now receiving this insulin.
2) Formation of human growth hormone
In 1977, an E.coli bacterium was created that was capable of synthesizing the human growth hormone.
3) Formation of thymosin hormone
The hormone thymosin which may prove effective against brain and lung cancer has been produced by genetically modified micro-organisms.i.
4) Formation of beta-endorphin
Beta-endorphin, a pain killer produced by the brain, has also been produced by genetic engineering techniques.
5) Formation of vaccines
Genetic engineers produced a safe vaccine against the foot and mouth disease (a viral disease in cattle, goats and deer). Similarly many vaccines have been produced against human disease such as hepatitis-B.
6) Formation of interferons
Interferons are anti-viral proteins produced by cells infected with viruses. In 1980, interferon was produced in the genetically modified micro-organisms for the 1st time.
7) Formation of urokinase enzyme
The enzyme urokinase which is used to dissolve blood clots, has been produced by genetically modified micro-organisms.
8) Elimination of inherited diseases
Now it has become possible to modify the genes in the human egg cell. This can lead to the elimination of inherited diseases like haemophilia.
9) Cure of blood diseases
Genetic engineering techniques can also be used to cure blood diseases like thalassemia and sickle cell anaemia which result from defects in single genes. Normal genes could be transferred into the bone marrow.
10) Formation of nitrogen fixing plants
Genetic engineers have developed plants that can fix nitrogen directly from the atmosphere. Such plants need less fertilizers.
