Welcome to the captivating world of Chapter 17 – Biotechnology in your 10th biology curriculum. Biotechnology, often referred to as the science of the future, is a groundbreaking field that merges biology with technology to bring about revolutionary advancements in various domains of our lives.
This chapter will be your gateway to understanding how scientists manipulate living organisms and biological systems to solve real-world problems, from improving crop yields and producing life-saving medicines to unraveling the mysteries of genetics and unlocking the potential of genetic engineering. Get ready to explore the frontiers of scientific innovation and ethical considerations as we delve into the fascinating realm of Biotechnology.
Unit 17 Biotechnology Long Questions
Unit 17 Biotechnology MCQ’s
Unit 17 Biotechnology Short Questions
- 10th Class Pak Study Textbook
- 9th and 10th Class General Science Textbook
- Chapter No. 9 Notes 10th Chemistry
- Biology 10th Class Past Papers
- English Past Papers of 10th Class
When did humans begin utilizing biotechnology?
Since they discovered farming.
What is the definition of biotechnology?
The use of living organisms in processes for the manufacture of useful products or services.
What are considered old biotechnology processes?
Fermentation and other processes based on the natural capabilities of organisms.
What is modern biotechnology known as?
Genetic engineering, involving the artificial manipulation of genetic material (DNA) to alter organism characteristics.
When did the work on genetic engineering begin?
It started in 1944 when it was proved that DNA carries genetic information.
What was the Human Genome Project?
A project launched in 1990 to map all the genes in a human cell, with the complete map published in 2002.
Who produced the sheep named Dolly, and how?
Embryologist Ian Wilmut produced Dolly the sheep from the body cell of an adult sheep in 1997.
How long have humans been using microorganisms for various purposes?
As early as 4000 BC, for making wine, vinegar, cheese, yogurt, etc.
What are some applications of biotechnology in the field of medicine?
Synthesis of insulin, interferon, vaccines, antibodies, human growth hormone, and gene therapy.
How has biotechnology impacted the field of food and agriculture?
It has led to the production of fermented foods, vitamins, dairy products, and the development of transgenic plants and animals.
In what areas is biotechnology being used for environmental purposes?
Pollution control, renewable energy sources, land restoration, biodiversity conservation, and treating sewage water.
How are bacterial enzymes used in biotechnology?
Bacterial enzymes are used to treat sewage water for purification.
What are some applications of transgenic microorganisms?
Biopesticides, biofertilizers, biosensors, metal recovery, and cleaning up spilled oils.
What is fermentation?
Fermentation is a process in which there is incomplete oxidation-reduction of glucose, resulting in the production of various products. It involves microbial activity and is used to produce various products like food, beverages, and industrial chemicals.
How does fermentation differ from cellular respiration?
Fermentation involves incomplete oxidation-reduction of glucose and does not produce as much energy as cellular respiration. Cellular respiration fully oxidizes glucose and produces energy in the form of ATP.
Who established the link between fermentation and microbial activity?
Louis Pasteur established the link between fermentation and microbial activity in 1857, showing that fermentations are the result of microbial processes.
What are the two basic types of carbohydrate fermentation?
The two basic types of carbohydrate fermentation are alcoholic fermentation (by yeast) and lactic acid fermentation (by bacteria).
What are the products of alcoholic fermentation?
The products of alcoholic fermentation are ethanol and carbon dioxide. This process is used in the production of bread, beer, wine, and distilled spirits.
Which microorganisms carry out lactic acid fermentation?
Lactic acid fermentation is carried out by bacteria such as Streptococcus and various Lactobacillus species. It is used in the dairy industry for souring milk and making cheese.
What is the difference between batch fermentation and continuous fermentation?
Batch fermentation is a discontinuous process where the fermenter is filled with raw materials, and fermentation occurs until the proper time, after which the contents are removed and the process is repeated. Continuous fermentation involves adding substrate continuously to the fermenter while simultaneously removing fermentation products.
What are the advantages of using fermenters in biotechnological processes?
Fermenters provide a controlled environment for optimizing the growth of microorganisms by regulating factors like nutrients, oxygen, pH, and temperature. They allow for the production of materials in bulk quantities, making the production of medicines and other products cost-effective.
What is genetic engineering?
Genetic engineering involves the artificial modification, synthesis, removal, addition, and repair of genetic material (DNA).
When did genetic engineering develop?
Genetic engineering developed in the mid-1970s.
How is DNA transferred between different organisms?
DNA is transferred between different organisms using special enzymes called restriction endonucleases.
What is the purpose of using a vector in genetic engineering?
Vectors are used to transfer isolated genes of interest to host cells in genetic engineering.
What is recombinant DNA?
Recombinant DNA is formed when the gene of interest is attached to vector DNA through breaking and joining enzymes.
How does the transfer of recombinant DNA change the host organism?
Transfer of recombinant DNA transforms the host organism into a genetically modified organism (GMO).
How do GMOs produce the desired product?
GMOs containing the gene of interest manufacture the desired product, which is then isolated from the culture medium.
What is an achievement of genetic engineering related to insulin?
The human insulin gene was transferred into bacteria, allowing them to produce insulin for diabetic patients.
What was the significance of creating a bacterium capable of synthesizing human growth hormone?
In 1977, an E. coli bacterium was engineered to synthesize human growth hormone.
How was the hormone thymosin produced using genetic engineering?
Genetically modified microorganisms were used to produce the hormone thymosin, which could be effective against brain and lung cancer.
What is the purpose of genetic engineering in relation to vaccines?
Genetic engineering has been used to produce vaccines against diseases such as foot and mouth disease and hepatitis B.
How has genetic engineering impacted the production of human growth hormone?
Before genetic engineering, 500,000 sheep brains were needed to produce 5 mg of human growth hormone.
What are interferons, and how were they produced using genetic engineering?
Interferons are anti-viral proteins. In 1980, they were produced for the first time using genetically modified microorganisms.
What is the significance of producing the enzyme urokinase through genetic modification?
The enzyme urokinase, used to dissolve blood clots, was produced using genetically modified microorganisms.
How has genetic engineering affected the modification of human egg cells?
Genetic engineering has made it possible to modify genes in human egg cells, potentially eliminating inherited diseases like haemophilia.
Which types of diseases can genetic engineering potentially cure?
Genetic engineering techniques can be used to cure blood diseases like thalassemia and sickle-cell anemia, caused by defects in single genes.
How has genetic engineering benefited nitrogen-fixing plants?
Genetic engineering has led to the development of plants that can fix nitrogen directly from the atmosphere, reducing the need for fertilizers.
What is Single-Cell Protein (SCP)?
Single-Cell Protein (SCP) refers to protein content extracted from microorganisms like algae, yeasts, fungi, or bacteria grown in fermenters.
How are microorganisms transformed to produce beneficial proteins?
Microorganisms are transformed through genetic engineering by introducing genes for beneficial proteins like insulin.
What is the significance of using microorganisms for SCP production?
Microorganisms grow vigorously and yield a high amount of protein, potentially addressing food shortage problems.
How are microorganisms grown for SCP production?
Microorganisms are grown in fermenters using various substrates such as agricultural wastes, industrial wastes, and natural gas.
What are the potential benefits of using SCP as a food source?
SCP could substitute other protein-rich foods in human and animal feeds, as it contains essential amino acids and high vitamin content.
What is the yield of protein production from yeast and algae in comparison to soybeans and corn?
Yeast produces around 250 tons of protein from 50 kilograms within 24 hours, and algae yield 20 tons of protein per acre/year (dry weight). This is significantly higher than soybeans and corn.
Why is SCP production using industrial wastes beneficial?
Using industrial wastes as raw materials for microorganisms helps control pollution and contributes to sustainable production.
Why is SCP production considered independent of seasonal variations?
SCP production is not dependent on traditional agricultural seasons, making it a consistent and reliable source of protein.
What is the basis for calling it “single-cell protein”?
The microorganisms used for SCP production are unicellular or filamentous individuals.
What factor contributes to the growing popularity of SCP production?
SCP production is gaining popularity due to its requirement of limited land area for cultivation.
Question: Define biotechnology and describe its importance.
Biotechnology is the use of living organisms in processes for the manufacture of useful products or for services. It involves harnessing biological systems, cells, and biomolecules to develop innovative solutions and applications in various fields such as medicine, agriculture, and the environment. Biotechnology has played a crucial role in improving product quality, increasing yields, and addressing challenges in various industries, thereby contributing to human welfare and economic growth.
Question: What is a fermenter? What are the two types of fermentation carried out in fermenters?
A fermenter is a device used for the controlled cultivation of microorganisms in large quantities. It provides an optimal environment for the growth of microorganisms to produce desired products. Two types of fermentation carried out in fermenters are:
Alcoholic Fermentation: This is carried out by yeast and produces ethanol and carbon dioxide. It’s used to produce products like bread, beer, wine, and distilled spirits.
Lactic Acid Fermentation: This is carried out by bacteria and produces lactic acid. It’s used in the production of dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and souring milk.
Question: Describe the achievements of genetic engineering in medicine, agriculture, and the environment.
Genetic engineering has achieved significant advancements in various fields:
Medicine: Genetic engineering has enabled the production of therapeutic proteins like insulin, human growth hormone, and vaccines through genetically modified microorganisms. It has also paved the way for gene therapy, the treatment of genetic diseases, and advancements in personalized medicine.
Agriculture: Genetic engineering has led to the development of transgenic plants with improved traits such as resistance to pests and diseases, enhanced nutritional content, and increased yields. This technology has potential to address global food security challenges.
Environment: Genetic engineering has applications in environmental remediation, such as using microorganisms to clean up oil spills and contaminated water. It also aids in developing renewable energy sources and enhancing biodiversity conservation.
Question: What basic steps does a genetic engineer adopt during the manipulation of genes?
Genetic engineering involves several key steps:
Isolation of the Gene: Identify and isolate the gene of interest from the donor organism’s DNA using restriction enzymes.
Insertion into a Vector: Attach the isolated gene to a vector, often a plasmid, which will carry the gene into the host organism.
Transfer to Host Organism: Introduce the recombinant DNA (vector with inserted gene) into the host organism’s cells, transforming it into a genetically modified organism (GMO).
Growth of GMO: Cultivate the GMO under controlled conditions to allow it to produce the desired protein or product.
Expression of the Gene: Allow the GMO to express the introduced gene, producing the desired protein or effect.
Question: What are single-cell proteins? Describe their importance.
Single-cell proteins (SCP) refer to proteins extracted from microorganisms such as algae, yeasts, fungi, or bacteria that are grown in fermenters. They have gained importance due to their high protein yield, rapid growth rate, and potential to alleviate food shortage issues. SCP production offers an efficient and sustainable way to produce protein-rich food and feed sources, reducing the strain on traditional agricultural resources. Additionally, the use of industrial and agricultural wastes as substrates for SCP production contributes to waste reduction and environmental sustainability.
Question: How would you define fermentation with reference to biotechnology?
Fermentation, in the context of biotechnology, refers to a metabolic process in which microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, use organic compounds like carbohydrates as a source of energy in the absence of oxygen. This process is harnessed for various industrial applications, including the production of food, beverages, and biofuels.
Question: Name any two industrial products made by fermentation. Also describe their uses in the industry.
Two industrial products made by fermentation are:
Ethanol: Ethanol is a biofuel produced by fermenting sugars, typically derived from crops like corn or sugarcane. It’s widely used as a fuel additive or alternative to gasoline in the automotive industry.
Insulin: Insulin is a hormone used to regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. It’s produced through genetic engineering techniques by inserting the insulin gene into bacteria, such as Escherichia coli.
Question: What are the products of the two types of carbohydrate fermentation?
Alcoholic Fermentation (by yeast): The products of alcoholic fermentation are ethanol and carbon dioxide. This type of fermentation is used in the production of bread, beer, wine, and distilled spirits.
Lactic Acid Fermentation (by bacteria): Lactic acid is the main product of lactic acid fermentation. This type of fermentation is used in dairy industry for souring milk and producing various types of cheese.
Question: Give an example of how biotechnology is helping for a better environment.
Biotechnology is aiding environmental efforts through the development of technologies like bioremediation, where microorganisms are used to clean up pollutants and contaminants from soil and water. Additionally, genetically engineered crops can be designed to require fewer pesticides and fertilizers, reducing the impact of agriculture on ecosystems.
Question: In biotechnology, what is meant by Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)? How is it made?
A Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) is an organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This involves inserting specific genes from one organism into the DNA of another, typically to confer desired traits or characteristics. In the context of biotechnology, GMOs can be created by isolating a gene of interest, inserting it into a vector (such as a plasmid), and introducing the vector into the target organism’s cells. This modified genetic material is then expressed by the organism, leading to the desired trait or product.