Q.9 What is genetic engineering and write down it objectives.
Answer:
Definition
Genetic engineering or recombinant DNA technology involves the artificial synthesis, modification, removal, addition and repair of the genetic material (DNA).
Development of Genetic Engineering
Genetic engineering developed in the mid โ 1970s when it became possible to cut DNA and to transfer particular pieces of DNA from one type of organism into another.
As a result, the characteristics of the host organism could be changed. If host organism is a microorganism, such as a bacterium, the transferred DNA is multiplied many times as the micro organism multiplies. Consequently, it is possible to obtain millions of copies of a specific DNA inside a bacterial cell.
Objectives of genetic engineering
The important objectives of genetic engineering are as follows:
1) Isolation of gene
Isolation of a particular gene or part of gene for various purposes such as gene therapy.
2) Production of RNA and protein
Production of particular RNA and protein molecules.
3) Production of enzymes, drugs and organic chemicals
Improvement in the production of enzymes, drugs, and commercially important organic chemicals.
Production of desirable plants
Production of varieties of plants having particular desirable characteristics.
5) Treatment of genetic defects
Treatment of genetic defects in higher organisms.
