A2 3.5 Unit F215 Module 2: Biotechnology and Gene Technologies

Natural processes have been harnessed and manipulated by humans for our benefit. This manipulation can take place at level of the gene, the cell or the whole organism.

A2 3.5 Unit F215 Module 2: 5.2.3 Genomes and Gene Technologies

Context and exemplification

The capacity to manipulate genes has many potential benefits, but the implications of genetic techniques are subject to much public debate

Assessable learning outcomes

Candidates should be able to:
(d) explain that genetic engineering involves the extraction of genes from one organism, or the manufacture of genes, in order to place them in another organism (often of a different species) such that the receiving organism expresses the gene product (HSW6a);
(l) describe the advantage to microorganisms of the capacity to take up plasmid DNA from the environment;
(q) explain the term gene therapy;
(r) explain the differences between somatic cell gene therapy and germ line cell gene therapy