Biotechnology Exploring the source and exploitation of genetic alterations Used in: forensics, genetically modified foods (GMOs), medicine.

Means of genetic manipulation: 1. Selective breeding: Of dissimilar individuals, called hybridization Of similar individuals, called inbreeding

2. Mutation caused by mutagen (radiation or chemicals) 3. Use of drugs to produce polyploids (several DNA copies)

Direct manipulation of genes Uses recombinant DNA technology: 4. Genetic Engineering: Direct manipulation of genes Uses recombinant DNA technology: Gene cloning Transformation (cell takes up foreign DNA)

Applications of genetic engineering: Gene therapy: uses recombinant DNA technology to replace an absent or faulty gene with a normal, working gene Production of transgenic organisms (organisms with other organisms’ genes) that help make better medicines, treatments, and supplements ( - 1) Try your hand at gene therapy – click here)

Tools of genetic engineering: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) makes billions of copies of a segment of DNA Gel electrophoresis makes a picture of DNA called a DNA fingerprint DNA fingerprinting: identifies differences between individuals’ genetic makeup to establish identity or relationships Useful in forensics, paternity tests, etc

DNA Fingerprinting in Paternity Tests: Which child is not dad’s?