Genome sequencing, personalised medicine and GMOsEdexcel A-Level Biology A: Mind map

Exam questions on Genome sequencing, personalised medicine and GMOs

1. Until the 1980s, insulin for people with diabetes was extracted from the pancreases of pigs and cattle. Today most insulin is made by genetically modified bacteria. The human insulin gene is copied from mRNA and inserted into a plasmid, which is taken up by the bacteria and grown in large fermenters.
   Explain two advantages of using genetically modified bacteria to make human insulin rather than extracting it from pigs.2 marks
2. Warfarin is a drug that prevents blood clots. The dose that is safe varies between patients because of differences in the alleles of genes coding for enzymes that break down the drug. A hospital sequences the genomes of its patients before prescribing, and stores the results on a secure database.
   Suggest how sequencing a patient's genome could reduce the chance of an adverse reaction to warfarin.2 marks
3. A company has genetically modified tobacco plants so that their leaves make a human antibody that is used as a drug. The antibody gene was inserted into the chromosomes of the plant cells. The plants are currently grown in sealed greenhouses, and the company is considering growing them in open fields instead.
   Suggest three advantages of producing the antibody in plants, compared with producing it in animals.3 marks