Genetic engineering is the modification of the genetic information of living organisms by manipulation of DNA i.e. by adding, removing or repairing part of genetic material (DNA) and changing the phenotype of the organism. It is also known as gene manipulation or Recombinant DNA Technology (r-DNA Technology)
Recent advances made in Genetics, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry have resulted in the origin of this new branch of science.
Merits of Genetic Engineering
? Understanding of the gene structure and function through basic research.
? Production of large quantities of human insulin, interferons(Anti-Viral Proteins produced by Virus infected cells) human
growth hormones and vaccines for foot and mouth disease of cattle (komari – in Tamil) etc.
? This technique is also employed in the transfer of genes involved in Nitrogen fixation (Nif–genes). This will help cultivators to increase productivity.
Basic techniques in Genetic Engineering
Genetic Engineering has developed after the discovery of two enzymes- the enzymes which can cut DNA into fragments and the enzymes which can join such fragments.
A. Restriction enzymes or Restriction endonucleases are molecular scissors which cut DNA at specific sites.
B. DNAligases are the paste enzymes which help in joining the broken DNA fragments.