Answer:
Genetic engineering involves the manipulation of an organism's genes or DNA to achieve specific outcomes such as improved traits or the introduction of new characteristics. Here are a few examples of genetic engineering:
Genetically Modified Crops: Genetic engineering has been used extensively in agriculture to create crops with desirable traits, such as improved resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stress. One example is Bt cotton, which has been engineered to produce a toxin that repels pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Another example is Golden Rice, which has been engineered to produce beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, to address deficiencies in developing countries.
Gene Therapy: Gene therapy involves the insertion of a new gene into a patient's cells to treat or prevent a disease. For example, in 2017, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a gene therapy called Kymriah for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Kymriah involves modifying a patient's T cells to attack cancer cells.
Cloning: Cloning is the process of creating a genetically identical copy of an organism. In 1996, the famous cloned sheep, Dolly, was created by somatic cell nuclear transfer, in which the nucleus of a donor cell was inserted into an egg cell whose nucleus had been removed.
Gene Editing: Gene editing involves making precise changes to an organism's DNA. The CRISPR-Cas9 system is a powerful gene-editing tool that has been used to create mice with genetic mutations that mimic human diseases, such as muscular dystrophy and cystic fibrosis.
Synthetic Biology: Synthetic biology involves designing and creating new biological systems or modifying existing ones. One example is the creation of bacteria that can produce biofuels, such as ethanol or butanol, from plant material. Another example is the creation of bacteria that can break down plastic waste.
These examples highlight the diverse applications of genetic engineering, from improving crop yields and disease treatments to creating new biological systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
2023