2. Introduction
Genetic engineering is the process of
using recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology
to alter the genetic makeup of an
organism. Traditionally, humans have
manipulated genomes indirectly by
controlling breeding and selecting offspring
with desired traits. Genetic engineering
involves the direct manipulation of one or
more genes.
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3. 10/9/2023 PRESENTATION TITLE 3
Eukaryotes are organisms that
possess eukaryotic cells, which are
characterized by the presence of a
membrane-bound nucleus and
other membrane-bound organelles.
They are one of the three domains
of life, along with bacteria
(prokaryotes) and archaea (another
group of prokaryotes).
4. In bacteria, changing the genetic
makeup affects the entire single-celled
organism. However, in multicellular
organisms, it is possible to modify a
gene in a specific tissue that contains
only one type of specialized cell. To
modify germ cells, the modifications
need to be made at an early stage of
development before they separate from
the rest of the organism. However,
successfully achieving these changes
has been limited to certain organisms
such as plants, fruit flies, and certain
animals like mice.
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5. • Genetic engineering in plants involves
utilizing the natural ability of Agrobacterium
tumefaciens. This unique process allows for
the introduction of genes from various
sources into plants, leading to the
development of desired traits or
characteristics. The example of genetically
engineered tomato plants resistant to
caterpillar-induced defoliation demonstrates
the successful application of this approach
in crop improvement.
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Applications of Genetic
Engineering in Crop
improvement
6. • Scientists have developed genetically modified (GM) food crops
like Bt corn and cotton by incorporating a gene from Bacillus
thuringiensis (Bt) bacterium. This gene produces a toxin that is
toxic to caterpillars, making these crops resistant to pests and
reducing the need for pesticides. However, critics have expressed
concerns about the safety and ethical implications of GM food
production. These concerns include potential allergenic effects and
the impact on non-targeted insects such as the monarch butterfly.
The accidental discovery of Bt corn in taco shells in 2000 brought
public attention to GM foods. Despite the concerns, ongoing
research is being conducted to identify beneficial modifications in
food crops using genetic engineering techniques.
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Example of GM crops
