CAIE IGCSE Biology 21.3.2 Genetic Modification a Questions

Practise linking inserted genes to human proteins or crop traits such as herbicide resistance, pest resistance and improved nutrition.

Exam points

link a human gene inserted into bacteria with production of the corresponding human protein
identify inserted crop genes for herbicide resistance, insect resistance or improved nutrition
state a specific benefit such as reduced crop damage, lower pesticide use or improved food quality

[Maximum number: 4]

A DNA molecule has two strands as shown in Fig. 6.1.

Fig. 6.1

A modern method for improving crop productivity is to cut out sections of DNA carrying a useful gene from one organism and place them into another organism.

A gene for producing a vaccine has been inserted into banana plants.

Give two other examples in which crop plants have been changed by inserting genes. State one advantage for each example.
example 1
advantage
example 2
advantage

drought/salt/pollution/metal/frost/stress/cold, resistant;
increased, yield / productivity;
extend range where crops can be grown;
herbicide resistance;
increased yield / productivity;
pesticide resistance;
increased yield / productivity;
crop plants produce own insecticides;
less insecticide used;
increased yield;
vitamin / nutrient, enrichment / $\beta$ carotene (Golden rice);
increased nutritional value;
pathogen resistant/Bt;
increased productivity / less pesticide use;
antigens / vaccines / pharmaceuticals;
e.g. insulin cheap production of medicines;
flavour/texture/ripening;
Improved customer satisfaction/shelf life;
linked marking points 2+2
R bacteria (as not a crop plant)
A 'more profit' once.

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CAIE IGCSE Biology 21.3.2 Genetic Modification a Questions question 1