BIO 303 Lecture Notes - Lecture 17: Molecular Genetics, Peptide, Somatic Cell
Document Summary
Gene mutations can also result in favorable changes. Over a large number of years, evolution produces tremendous diversity of life. Biotechnology - technologies that involve the use of living organisms, or their products, to benefit humans. Began about 12k years ago when humans began to domesticate animals and plants for the production of food. Molecular genetics has provided new, improved ways to make use of organisms to benefit humans. Genetically modified organisms (gmos) have received genetic material via recombinant dna technology. An organism that has integrated recombinant dna into its genome is called transgenic. Microorganisms are used to benefit humans in various ways. Molecular genetic tools are very important in influencing and improving our use of microorganisms. Problems include: safety concerns and public perception. Regulates several physiological processes, particularly the uptake of glucose into fat and muscle cells. Produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. Persons with insulin-dependent diabetes have a defect in their beta cells.
