Multiple Choice Questions
Biology: Emerging Biotechnologies and Applications
Topic: Emerging Biotechnologies and Applications
Grade: 12
Questions:
1. Which of the following is an example of a transgenic organism?
a) A mouse with a gene for bioluminescence
b) A plant that has been genetically modified to resist pests
c) A bacterium that produces human insulin
d) A fish that has been given the ability to glow in the dark
Answer: a) A mouse with a gene for bioluminescence
Explanation: A transgenic organism is one that has had genes from another species inserted into its genome. In this case, the mouse has been genetically modified to express a gene for bioluminescence, which it would not naturally have. This process involves the use of recombinant DNA technology to introduce the desired gene into the mouse\’s genome.
Example: Another example of a transgenic organism is a goat that has been genetically modified to produce spider silk in its milk. By inserting the gene responsible for spider silk production into the goat\’s genome, scientists can collect the silk protein from the goat\’s milk and use it for various applications such as making bulletproof vests or artificial tendons.
2. What is the purpose of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in biotechnology?
a) To amplify specific DNA sequences
b) To clone entire organisms
c) To produce recombinant proteins
d) To create genetically modified organisms
Answer: a) To amplify specific DNA sequences
Explanation: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a technique used to amplify a specific DNA sequence in vitro. It allows for the rapid production of multiple copies of a target DNA segment, making it easier to study and analyze. PCR involves a series of temperature cycles that allow DNA to be denatured, annealed with primers, and extended by a DNA polymerase enzyme.
Example: PCR can be used in forensic science to amplify small amounts of DNA from a crime scene. By amplifying the DNA, scientists can obtain enough material for analysis, such as DNA profiling, which can help identify potential suspects. PCR is also used in genetic testing, where specific genes or mutations are amplified to determine the presence or absence of certain genetic conditions.
3. Which of the following is an example of gene therapy?
a) Inserting a healthy gene into a patient\’s cells to treat a genetic disorder
b) Modifying the DNA of a crop plant to increase its yield
c) Using bacteria to produce insulin for diabetes treatment
d) Creating transgenic animals for research purposes
Answer: a) Inserting a healthy gene into a patient\’s cells to treat a genetic disorder
Explanation: Gene therapy involves the introduction of a functional gene into a patient\’s cells to treat a genetic disorder. By replacing or supplementing a faulty gene, gene therapy aims to correct the underlying cause of the disease. This can be done by delivering the healthy gene directly into the patient\’s cells using a viral vector or other methods.
Example: One example of gene therapy is the treatment of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), also known as \”bubble boy\” disease. Patients with SCID lack a functional immune system and are highly susceptible to infections. Gene therapy has been used to insert a healthy copy of the gene responsible for immune system development into the patient\’s cells, restoring immune function and improving their quality of life.
4. What is the purpose of CRISPR-Cas9 in genome editing?
a) To cut DNA at specific locations
b) To amplify DNA sequences
c) To insert foreign genes into a genome
d) To clone entire organisms
Answer: a) To cut DNA at specific locations
Explanation: CRISPR-Cas9 is a revolutionary genome editing tool that allows for precise DNA cutting at specific locations within a genome. The CRISPR system uses RNA molecules to guide the Cas9 enzyme to the target DNA sequence, where it creates a double-stranded break. This break can then be repaired by the cell\’s natural DNA repair machinery, leading to the introduction of desired genetic changes.
Example: CRISPR-Cas9 has been used to edit the genes of various organisms, including plants. By targeting specific genes involved in crop traits, such as disease resistance or nutritional content, scientists can use CRISPR-Cas9 to make precise changes in the plant\’s genome. For example, CRISPR-Cas9 has been used to create mushrooms that do not brown as quickly when cut, potentially reducing food waste.
5. What is the purpose of DNA sequencing in biotechnology?
a) To determine the order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule
b) To create genetically modified organisms
c) To produce recombinant proteins
d) To analyze gene expression patterns
Answer: a) To determine the order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule
Explanation: DNA sequencing is the process of determining the precise order of nucleotides (adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine) in a DNA molecule. This information is crucial for understanding the genetic code and identifying specific genes or genetic variations. DNA sequencing techniques have advanced significantly in recent years, allowing for faster and more accurate sequencing of entire genomes.
Example: DNA sequencing has been instrumental in the field of personalized medicine. By sequencing an individual\’s genome, scientists can identify specific genetic variations that may be associated with certain diseases or drug responses. This information can then be used to tailor medical treatments to the individual, improving their effectiveness and reducing potential side effects.