Basic Concepts in Genetic Engineering
Introduction: Manipulation of gene and genetic material by man is
a fast emerging branch of science that started with the formation of
recombinant DNA molecules. This branch of science is named Recombinant DNA technology, genetic
engineering and DNA manipulation Biotechnology. This technology involves
cutting and pasting of desired DNA fragments into the specified host for the
benefit of human beings.
The origin of
biotechnology is as old as human civilization. As a science, it is little more
than 100 years old. Fermentation is the oldest biotechnological process
discovered by people by prolonged soaking of grains before cooking or by
storing juices of fruits or palms.
During the last two
decades biotechnology has achieved the greatest advancement in the fields of
Recombinant DNA technology. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) cell culture and
fusion, bioprocessing, gene cloning, DNA fingerprinting, in vitro
fertilization leading to a “test-tube” baby, developing a DNA vaccine, correction
of a defective gene etc.
A recent definition of
biotechnology given by the European Federation of Biotechnology (EFB), combining
both the traditional view, as well as the modern molecular biotechnology, is as
follows:
“Biotechnology is the
integrated use of biochemistry, microbiology and engineering sciences in order
to achieve the technological application of the capabilities of micro-organisms,
cultured tissues/cells and parts thereof.”
Principle
of Biotechnology
The science of biotechnology is based mainly on two
core technologies. These are —
1. Genetic Engineering: It is the
manipulation of genes by man. Genetic engineering refers to artificial
synthesis, isolation, modification, combination addition and repair of the
genetic material (DNA) to alter the phenotype of the host organism to suit
human needs.
2. Biochemical Engineering: It
increases that help the growth of desired microbes or eukaryotic cells in large
quantities in a sterile medium (Tissue Culture Technique) for the manufacture
and multiplication of biotechnological products (antibiotics, vaccines, enzymes,
medicines, hormones etc.).
Conceptual
Development of the Principles of Genetic Engineering
The living organisms
reproduce easily by asexual and sexual methods. Out of the two, sexual reproduction
has more advantages as it provides opportunities for variations and the formation
of new genetic combinations. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand,
preserves the genetic characters. The variations produced as a result of sexual
reproduction may be beneficial to organisms as well as populations. This
beneficial activity of sexual reproduction is used in animal and plant breeding
programmes where hybridization procedures vary for the combination and
multiplication of desired genes. However, traditional hybridization procedures
after include and multiply some of the undesired genes along with the desired
genes, To avoid the inclusion of undesirable genes, a new technique of
genetic engineering has been developed which involves the creation of Recombinant
DNA, use of gene cloning and gene transfer. This new technique excluding the
introduction of undesirable genes into the target organisms.
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