Multiple Choice Questions
Biology: Advanced Topics in Biotechnology
Topic: Genetic Engineering
Grade: 12
Question 1:
What is the purpose of using restriction enzymes in genetic engineering?
A) To cut DNA at specific sequences
B) To amplify DNA sequences
C) To insert foreign DNA into a plasmid
D) To create recombinant DNA molecules
Answer: A) To cut DNA at specific sequences
Explanation: Restriction enzymes are used in genetic engineering to cut DNA at specific sequences, known as restriction sites. This allows scientists to isolate and manipulate specific genes or DNA fragments. For example, the restriction enzyme EcoRI recognizes the DNA sequence GAATTC and cuts the DNA at this site. This technique is often used in DNA cloning and gene mapping.
Question 2:
Which of the following is an example of a genetically modified organism (GMO)?
A) A plant that has been selectively bred for desired traits
B) A bacteria that produces insulin for medical use
C) A fruit that has been cross-pollinated to enhance flavor
D) A dog that has been trained to perform specific tasks
Answer: B) A bacteria that produces insulin for medical use
Explanation: Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. In this example, a bacteria has been modified to produce insulin, a hormone used to treat diabetes. This is achieved by inserting the human insulin gene into the bacteria\’s DNA. This technique has revolutionized the production of insulin, making it more efficient and affordable.
Topic: Stem Cells
Grade: 12
Question 3:
Which of the following types of stem cells has the greatest potential for differentiation?
A) Totipotent stem cells
B) Pluripotent stem cells
C) Multipotent stem cells
D) Unipotent stem cells
Answer: A) Totipotent stem cells
Explanation: Totipotent stem cells have the greatest potential for differentiation as they can give rise to all cell types in an organism, including both embryonic and extra-embryonic tissues. They have the ability to differentiate into any cell type, including those of the placenta. In contrast, pluripotent stem cells can differentiate into any cell type of the three germ layers, but cannot give rise to extra-embryonic tissues.
Question 4:
What is the process of reprogramming adult cells to an embryonic-like state called?
A) Cloning
B) Differentiation
C) Reprogramming
D) Induced pluripotency
Answer: D) Induced pluripotency
Explanation: The process of reprogramming adult cells to an embryonic-like state is called induced pluripotency. This involves the introduction of specific genes or factors into the adult cells, which results in their transformation into pluripotent stem cells. These induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have the ability to differentiate into any cell type of the body, similar to embryonic stem cells. This technique has significant potential in regenerative medicine and disease modeling.
Topic: CRISPR-Cas9
Grade: 12
Question 5:
What is the role of guide RNA in the CRISPR-Cas9 system?
A) It identifies the target DNA sequence
B) It cuts the target DNA sequence
C) It repairs the cut DNA sequence
D) It amplifies the target DNA sequence
Answer: A) It identifies the target DNA sequence
Explanation: Guide RNA plays a crucial role in the CRISPR-Cas9 system by identifying the target DNA sequence that needs to be modified. It is designed to be complementary to the target DNA sequence and guides the Cas9 enzyme to the specific location. Once the Cas9 enzyme is bound to the target DNA, it cuts the DNA at that location, leading to the introduction of desired changes or modifications. This technology has revolutionized gene editing and has numerous applications in various fields of biology.
Question 6:
Which of the following is a potential ethical concern associated with the use of CRISPR-Cas9?
A) Increased risk of genetic diseases
B) Loss of genetic diversity
C) Creation of designer babies
D) Decreased agricultural productivity
Answer: C) Creation of designer babies
Explanation: One of the potential ethical concerns associated with the use of CRISPR-Cas9 is the possibility of creating designer babies. This refers to the intentional modification of the genetic makeup of an embryo to enhance certain traits or characteristics. While this technology has the potential to treat genetic diseases and improve human health, it also raises ethical questions regarding the limits of genetic manipulation and the potential for creating a genetically homogeneous society.