Biotechnology Terms

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What is a restriction enzyme?

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An enzyme that cuts DNA at specific sequences, used in gel electrophoresis to create DNA fragments of different sizes.

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What is insulin?

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A protein hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates glucose levels in the bloodstream.

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What is genetic engineering?

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The process of transferring a gene from the DNA of one organism into another to produce an organism with desired traits.

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What is a benefit of genetically modified organisms (GMO)?

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Increased yields, allowing for more production of crops.

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What is selective breeding?

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A method of breeding that allows only those individual organisms with desired characteristics to produce the next generation.

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What is gel electrophoresis?

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A laboratory method used to separate DNA fragments based on their size.

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What is a plasmid?

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A small, circular piece of DNA commonly used in genetic engineering to transfer genes.

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What is biotechnology?

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The use of living organisms or their products to develop or create useful products, often involving genetic manipulation.

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What is a GMO?

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An organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques.

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What is the Human Genome Project?

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An international research project aimed at mapping and understanding all the genes of the human species.