Year 10 Genetics: Biotechnology Examples & Ethics by

Instructions

paulboon — 2025-03-20 21:51:42 UTC

Choose a specific example of biotechnology (e.g., CRISPR, GM crops, genetic testing)
Create a post with:
- Title: Name of the biotechnology
- Description: Briefly explain:
  - What the technology does
  - How it works
  - Key ethical considerations
You can comment on others’ posts to discuss the ethical implications

Cloning Dogs (PAUL)

paulboon — 2025-03-20 21:55:18 UTC

Cloning dogs involves creating a genetic replica of a canine through a process called somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), where the nucleus of a donor dog’s cell is implanted into an egg cell from which the nucleus has been removed. While the technology presents an opportunity for pet owners to replicate beloved pets, it raises significant ethical concerns. These include the implications of animal welfare, as the cloning process can lead to health issues and a high rate of failure, resulting in suffering for the animals involved. Additionally, ethical debates arise regarding the value of individuality and the emotional ramifications for owners who may project their feelings onto a cloned pet, potentially neglecting the unique characteristics and needs of the new animal. The broader implications of cloning on biodiversity and the potential commodification of pets also contribute to the ongoing ethical discourse.

plants (Cooper)

2025-03-20 23:38:13 UTC

we modify plants to improve them by making them stronger and more resistant to disease

people have been doing this for thousands of years to get the best end product

Growing Insulin (JETSON)

2025-03-20 23:38:32 UTC

Growing insulin is a process that has been around since 1978, it involves putting the human insulin cell inside of common bacteria to reproduce them very quickly, depending on the bacteria used and the amount on insulin being created, the process can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 5 hours. Growing insulin is important because people with type 1 or 2 diabetes don't produce the level of insulin required to properly function, so ensuring that those people have access to medical assistance is very important.

Genetically Modified Plants/Crops

2025-03-20 23:39:09 UTC

genetically modified crops are plants changed in a lab to have special traits like better yield or pest resistance. Scientists add genes from other plants or organisms to improve the crop. Some people think gm crops help feed more people and reduce chemicals, but other people worry about their safety and impact on the environment. The ethics of gm crops are debated but testing is important to ensure they are safe.

spider goats (lucy w)

2025-03-20 23:39:29 UTC

we copy the silk making gene in a spiders dna and put it into a goats dna
not ethically good, it can be stressful and invasive for the animals
Their milk contains the spider silk protein which can be used for for bullet-proof vests

Mosquitoes

2025-03-20 23:42:00 UTC

Scientists use biotechnology to create mosquitoes with 2 different types of genes, One that causes females to die before getting to maturity and one that allows mosquitoes to glow fluorescent under a certain red light. Doing this to female mosquitoes make them die as soon as they hatch because females are usually the ones that spread diseases.This can help reduce the spread of disease.