Genetics

Study of heredity and variation in living organisms.

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Chromosomes and Cell DivisionGenetic EngineeringNon-Mendelian Inheritance
Personalized MedicineGenetic Testing in FamiliesGenetically Modified Foods
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Advanced Topics

Genetic Engineering

Changing Genes on Purpose

Genetic engineering is when scientists deliberately change the DNA of living things to produce desired traits.

How Is It Done?

  • Gene Editing: Tools like CRISPR allow scientists to add, remove, or change specific genes.
  • Transgenic Organisms: Inserting genes from one species into another, such as making bacteria produce human insulin.

Why Use Genetic Engineering?

  • Medicine: Making medicines like insulin and growth hormones.
  • Agriculture: Creating crops that resist pests, tolerate drought, or have higher nutritional value.
  • Research: Studying diseases and testing new treatments.

Ethical Questions

Genetic engineering raises questions about safety, fairness, and the impact on nature. Scientists and the public must work together to use this technology responsibly.

Future Possibilities

Gene therapy could one day cure genetic diseases by fixing faulty genes in patients.

Examples

  • Genetically modified corn can resist insect pests and reduce the need for pesticides.

  • CRISPR technology is being used to try to cure sickle cell anemia.

In a Nutshell

Genetic engineering lets scientists change DNA to improve health, agriculture, and research.

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Non-Mendelian Inheritance