Genetic Engineering

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What is Genetic Engineering?

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Genetic Engineering is the direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology, allowing for the modification of traits in plants, animals, and microorganisms.

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What are Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)?

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GMOs are organisms whose DNA has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally, often to enhance certain traits such as resistance to pests or improved nutritional content.

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What is the purpose of Genetic Engineering in agriculture?

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The purpose is to create crops that have desirable traits, such as increased yield, pest resistance, and improved nutritional value.

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What is an example of Genetic Engineering?

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An example is inserting a gene for bioluminescence into a fish, making it glow in the dark.

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What are some concerns regarding GMOs?

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Concerns include potential risks to human health, environmental impacts, and the possibility of seed/pollen drift to organic farms.

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What does the term 'biotechnology' refer to?

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Biotechnology refers to the use of living systems and organisms to develop or create products, often involving genetic manipulation.

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What is the difference between Genetic Engineering and Selective Breeding?

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Genetic Engineering involves directly altering an organism's DNA, while Selective Breeding involves choosing parent organisms with desirable traits to produce offspring.

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What are GM foods?

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GM foods are food products that have been derived from genetically modified organisms, often designed to improve yield, resistance, or nutritional value.

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What does 'DNA' stand for?

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DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid, which is the molecule that carries genetic information in living organisms.

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What is the role of genes in Genetic Engineering?

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Genes are segments of DNA that determine specific traits; in Genetic Engineering, genes can be added, removed, or altered to change those traits.