Genetic Modification and Insulin

IGCSE Edexcel Biology
5.12-5.16 Genetic Modification
Key Concept: Genes can be transferred using enzymes and vectors to create transgenic organisms.

Section A: Enzymes and Vectors

1. State the roles of restriction enzymes and DNA ligase. [4]
2. Explain why plasmids or viruses can be used as vectors. [2]

Section B: Insulin Production

3. Outline the main steps used to produce human insulin using genetically modified bacteria. [4]

Section C: GM Crops

4. Give one advantage of genetically modified plants in food production. [2]
5. Define the term transgenic. [2]
Total marks: 14

Mark Scheme

1. Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences; ligase joins DNA fragments [4]
2. Plasmids/viruses can carry genes into cells and replicate inside them [2]
3. Isolate insulin gene, cut plasmid, insert gene with ligase, put plasmid into bacteria, culture bacteria to produce insulin [4]
4. Any one: higher yield, pest resistance, improved nutrition, herbicide tolerance [2]
5. An organism with genetic material from another species [2]