Defining Gene Splicing - Lab Report Example

DNA is made up of two separate strands of base sequences. The same sequence is found on both strands, but running in opposite directions. What word describes this characteristic?
Complementary strands
What does the term “sticky ends” refer to in gene splicing?
The free unpaired bases at the end of each strand.
What is a plasmid? How is a plasmid used in gene splicing?
Plasmid is a circular extrachromosomal DNA molecule found in bacteria that has the capability to replicate independently of bacterial DNA. In gene splicing, plasmids can be used as vectors for the transmission of DNA into another cell. The genetic material to be introduced into the cell is integrated into the plasmid DNA and inserted into the cell.
What types of vectors are used to carry DNA from one species into the DNA of another species? Give examples.
Four types of vectors are commonly used:
1. phage viruses
2. bacterial plasmids
3. cosmids
4. yeast activated proteins
What is a “transgenic organism”? Give examples.
Any living organism that has had its genetic material altered by insertion of a gene from another organism's DNA using genetic engineering techniques, e.g., Drosophila melanogaster( the fruit fly) and Glo-fish, which is not a naturally occurring species

Why is it essential that the same restriction enzyme be used to cleave (cut) the DNA of both organisms used to create a transgenic organism?
The same restriction enzyme has to be used to cleave both the parent DNA and the plasmid so that the free bases at the end of the fragment are complementary to the free bases in the plasmid at the site of the split. The attraction between the unpaired complementary bases will facilitate the integration of the DNA fragment into the plasmid.
Are there any factors other than technical ones that might slow — or even prevent — the use of bioengineering?
Ethical factors-the consequences of creating new species which may overrun the natural form of the species and wreak havoc on the natural environment. Read More