Current Trends in Gene Manipulation
Overview
Biotechnology involves the alteration or use of cells or molecules for specific applications. The biotechnology that relates to the manipulation of genetic material is called genetic engineering. The result of combining the genetic material of one species with another is called recombinant DNA.
Recombinant DNA technology had its roots in 1975, when 140 microbiologists met to discuss the possibilities of a new type of experiment. Technology had developed the tools for recombining genes from different species. Called restriction enzymes, these tools cut pieces of DNA so that other pieces can be added. These restriction enzymes allow scientists to recombine the genes of different species. The process is also known as genetic engineering. A transgenic organism develops from a gamete that has been altered by the recombination of genes. Transgenic animals are used to "pharm" (produce) useful human proteins or to model human diseases. Cloning is accomplished by inserting material from a somatic, or body, cell into a germ cell (egg).
With the development of procedures that manipulate living things and combine the traits of uniquely different species, ethical questions arise. Fear of the unknown also comes to play a part. Legal and political challenges have emerged from many corners.
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