Genetic engineering
New techniques have been developed to use cells to treat disease or injury by making products that the body cannot make or by replacing faulty cells.
DNA contains a sequence of chemicals. The sequence is unique in every individual’s DNA.
Process which involves the artificial transfer of genetic information from one donor cell or organism to another. is the transfer of genes into an organism to give it new abilities.
Bacterial cells can be given human genes so that they make human proteins. Bacterial cells with new genes are described as Describes a cell or organism that has had its genetic code altered by adding a gene from another organism. organisms.
When the bacterial cells divide, copies of the human genes will be passed on to the new cells. Bacterial cells divide very rapidly so large quantities of human proteins can be produced.
Examples of human proteins that bacteria are genetically engineered to make:
- A hormone that regulates the level of sugar in the blood and can be produced by genetically modified bacteria., a hormone that regulates the level of glucose in the blood. Some people with diabetes cannot make their own insulin.
- Factor VII, a protein that is needed to make blood clot. It can be given to people with haemophilia A as they cannot produce their own factor VII.
- Human growth hormone, which is needed for cell growth. It can be used to treat children with growth disorders.