Chapter 10, Problem 13Q

Summary Introduction

To explain: Whether it is possible to isolate ice-protein mutant bacteria without the help of modern DNA technology.

Introduction: Recombinant DNA techniques are used for producing genetically modified organisms. It is also possible to integrate green fluorescent protein as molecular tag that allows its tracking inside the cell. The candidate gene can be knocked out to produce strain of desirable characteristics.

Summary Introduction

To explain: The possibility that such mutant bacteria have already occurred in nature.

Introduction: Recombinant DNA molecule forms by genetic recombination. It contains foreign DNA sequence from multiple sources. A recombinant DNA molecule (such as plasmid containing foreign DNA insert) can be grown in culture condition.

Summary Introduction

To explain: Whether the mutant bacterial strains isolated from nature would be of lesser concern than the mutant bacteria produced by recombinant DNA techniques.

Introduction: Recombinant DNA technology in order to produce novel genetic combinations combines the genes from two different organisms and introduces them inside a host. Generally, the genes of eukaryotic organisms of higher order are inserted into plasmid vectors and then are inserted into microorganisms.

Summary Introduction

To explain: Whether we should be concerned about the risk posed by the application of recombinant DNA techniques in agriculture and medicine.

Introduction: In the agricultural field, recombinant DNA technology is used to increase plant resistance to disease. This DNA technique is also important for paharmaceutical industry and medicine. This helps to diagnose genetic disease, such as Hungitons’s disease, and sickle-cell disease.