Genetic Engineering and GMOs — AQA GCSE Biology
Genetic engineering involves transferring genes from one organism to another to produce desired characteristics.
What is genetic engineering?
Genetic engineering is the process of modifying the genome of an organism by inserting a gene from another organism to give a desired characteristic. Organisms that have been modified are called genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
How it is done (Higher Tier)
- Enzymes are used to cut out the required gene.
- The gene is inserted into a vector (usually a bacterial plasmid or a virus).
- The vector inserts the gene into the cells of the target organism.
- If transferred at an early stage, all the organism's cells will contain and express the new gene.
Examples and uses
- Bacteria modified to produce human insulin for treating diabetes.
- Crops (GM crops) modified to be resistant to herbicides, pests or disease, or to give higher yields or added nutrients (e.g. golden rice with vitamin A).
Benefits and concerns
- Benefits: higher crop yields, medical products, improved nutrition.
- Concerns: effects on wild populations and biodiversity, uncertainty about long-term health effects, and ethical issues. Some worry GM genes could spread to wild plants.
Exam tips
- Define genetic engineering and GMO precisely.
- Learn the example of bacteria making insulin and GM crops.
- For Higher Tier, describe the steps using enzymes and a vector (plasmid/virus).
- Give balanced benefits and concerns.