Problem 6
Question
Which of the following is needed both in using bacteria to produce proteins and in genetic engineering of human cells? a. DNA fingerprinting based on microsatellite sequences b. insertion of a transgene into an expression vector c. restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) d. the Ti plasmid of Agrobacterium e. antibiotic resistance
Step-by-Step Solution
Verified Answer
b. insertion of a transgene into an expression vector
1Step 1: Understanding the context
Recognize that producing proteins using bacteria and the genetic engineering of human cells are both applications of recombinant DNA technology. This technology involves manipulating DNA to express certain proteins.
2Step 2: Identifying common requirements
Determine the common step in both processes, which involves inserting a new gene into a system that can express the gene. Both require a mechanism to introduce and ensure the expression of this gene.
3Step 3: Matching the options with the requirement
Review each option to find out which one is necessary for both using bacteria to produce proteins and genetic engineering human cells. Only one of these options would be relevant to both scenarios.
4Step 4: Eliminating the irrelevant options
Exclude the options which are specific to certain processes or organisms, or unrelated to the common requirement of gene insertion and expression.
5Step 5: Concluding the correct option
Conclude that the insertion of a transgene into an expression vector is necessary for both processes because it allows the gene of interest to be inserted into a bacterial or human cell system and be expressed as a protein.
Key Concepts
Protein Production Using BacteriaGenetic Engineering of Human CellsTransgene InsertionExpression Vector
Protein Production Using Bacteria
Protein production using bacteria is a marvel of biotechnology enabling the manufacture of valuable proteins like insulin and human growth hormone. This method harnesses the efficiency of bacterial cells, like E. coli, as minuscule factories churning out proteins.
The first step is identifying the desired human gene that codes for a specific protein. Scientists then splice this gene into a small circular piece of DNA known as a plasmid. These plasmids act as vectors, vehicles for carrying the human genes into the bacterial cells. Once inside, the machinery of the bacteria takes over, reading the human gene's instructions and producing the protein accordingly. Bacterial cultures can grow rapidly, and their short generation time leads to a bounty of human protein for therapeutic uses.
The first step is identifying the desired human gene that codes for a specific protein. Scientists then splice this gene into a small circular piece of DNA known as a plasmid. These plasmids act as vectors, vehicles for carrying the human genes into the bacterial cells. Once inside, the machinery of the bacteria takes over, reading the human gene's instructions and producing the protein accordingly. Bacterial cultures can grow rapidly, and their short generation time leads to a bounty of human protein for therapeutic uses.
Genetic Engineering of Human Cells
The genetic engineering of human cells is at the cutting edge of medical research. It involves modifying the cells' genetic material to treat genetic disorders, produce therapeutic proteins, or for gene therapy.
Just like protein production in bacteria, genetic engineers need to get the appropriate gene into human cells. However, the process is often more complex due to the intricacies of human cell machinery and our multicellular nature. Scientists use various delivery systems, including viruses or nanoparticles, to transfer the genes into the cells. Once integrated, these genes can correct genetic defects or instigate the production of proteins that can counteract diseases. This extraordinary technology holds promise for treatments of debilitating conditions like cystic fibrosis and certain cancers.
Just like protein production in bacteria, genetic engineers need to get the appropriate gene into human cells. However, the process is often more complex due to the intricacies of human cell machinery and our multicellular nature. Scientists use various delivery systems, including viruses or nanoparticles, to transfer the genes into the cells. Once integrated, these genes can correct genetic defects or instigate the production of proteins that can counteract diseases. This extraordinary technology holds promise for treatments of debilitating conditions like cystic fibrosis and certain cancers.
Transgene Insertion
The cornerstone of both protein production using bacteria and genetic engineering of human cells is the process of transgene insertion. A transgene is a gene that has been transferred naturally, or by any of a number of genetic engineering techniques from one organism to another.
To insert a transgene, scientists typically employ an expression vector which carries the gene of interest. The aim is to stably integrate this transgene into the host's genome or have it replicated within the cell. This allows the transgene to be passed on as the cells divide, ensuring that the new trait is maintained in subsequent generations of cells. While the success rate of transgene insertion can vary, advances in techniques such as CRISPR have vastly improved precision and efficiency.
To insert a transgene, scientists typically employ an expression vector which carries the gene of interest. The aim is to stably integrate this transgene into the host's genome or have it replicated within the cell. This allows the transgene to be passed on as the cells divide, ensuring that the new trait is maintained in subsequent generations of cells. While the success rate of transgene insertion can vary, advances in techniques such as CRISPR have vastly improved precision and efficiency.
Expression Vector
An expression vector is an essential tool in recombinant DNA technology. It's a specially designed plasmid or virus that provides the necessary elements for the transcription and translation of the inserted gene within the desired host cell.
The vector contains a promoter region which kick-starts the process of transcription, regulatory sequences to control the level and location of gene expression, and often a marker gene, such as one for antibiotic resistance, to help select for cells that have been successfully transformed. Choosing the appropriate expression vector is crucial for the high-rate production of recombinant proteins, as it significantly impacts the efficiency of gene expression in the host organism.
The vector contains a promoter region which kick-starts the process of transcription, regulatory sequences to control the level and location of gene expression, and often a marker gene, such as one for antibiotic resistance, to help select for cells that have been successfully transformed. Choosing the appropriate expression vector is crucial for the high-rate production of recombinant proteins, as it significantly impacts the efficiency of gene expression in the host organism.
Other exercises in this chapter
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