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a) (i) Name an ancient Australian Aboriginal use of biotechnology - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 31 - 2004 - Paper 1
Question 31
a) (i) Name an ancient Australian Aboriginal use of biotechnology. (ii) Describe how the breeding of animals with desired characteristics may be considered as early... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:a) (i) Name an ancient Australian Aboriginal use of biotechnology - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 31 - 2004 - Paper 1
Step 1
a) (i) Name an ancient Australian Aboriginal use of biotechnology.
Answer
An ancient Australian Aboriginal use of biotechnology includes the practice of using specific plant species for medicinal purposes. For example, eucalyptus leaves were traditionally used to treat respiratory ailments.
Step 2
a) (ii) Describe how the breeding of animals with desired characteristics may be considered as early biotechnology.
Answer
The breeding of animals with desired characteristics is considered early biotechnology because it involves selective breeding techniques to enhance specific traits within a species. This practice goes back thousands of years and laid the foundation for modern genetic engineering by allowing for the improvement of livestock in terms of productivity, disease resistance, and adaptability.
Step 3
b) (i) Provide an outline of the method followed in this investigation.
Answer
- Sample Collection: Collect tissue from a suitable organism, such as cheek cells or a plant.
- Lysis: Add a lysis buffer to break down the cell membrane and release DNA.
- Precipitation: Add alcohol (ethanol or isopropanol) to precipitate the DNA out of the solution.
- Washing: Rinse the solid DNA with alcohol to remove impurities.
- Drying: Air-dry the DNA pellet before resuspending it in a buffer solution for analysis.
Step 4
b) (ii) Outline uses of extracted DNA in biotechnology.
Answer
Extracted DNA can be used in various biotechnological applications including:
- Genetic cloning to produce copies of DNA or genes.
- DNA fingerprinting for forensic analysis or paternity testing.
- Gene therapy to correct genetic disorders.
- Production of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) with enhanced traits.
Step 5
c) Discuss, using named examples, the impact of the application of biotechnology on society.
Answer
Biotechnology has significant impacts on society. For instance, in agriculture, the development of genetically modified crops such as Bt cotton has increased yield and reduced pesticide use. In medicine, biotechnology has led to the creation of insulin through recombinant DNA technology, providing better treatment for diabetes. On the other hand, there are ethical concerns related to GMOs and potential health impacts, leading to public debates and differing opinions on their usage. Hence, while biotechnology offers benefits, it also generates controversies regarding safety, ethics, and environmental effects.
Step 6
d) (i) Outline the process of gene splicing to produce recombinant DNA.
Answer
Gene splicing is a method used to create recombinant DNA and involves the following steps:
- Isolation of the desired gene from a donor organism using restriction enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences.
- Preparation of the vector (plasmid) by cutting it with the same restriction enzymes.
- Ligation: The desired gene is inserted into the plasmid vector using DNA ligase, which joins the DNA fragments together.
- Transformation: The recombinant DNA is introduced into a host organism, often bacteria, which will replicate the DNA as it reproduces.
Step 7
d) (ii) Propose an impact on the environment if the fluorescent fish are accidentally released.
Answer
If fluorescent zebra fish are accidentally released into the environment, they may pose a risk to local ecosystems. The introduction of a genetically modified species can alter food webs and disrupt the balance of native species. For instance, if the fluorescent fish outcompete native fish for food sources, it could lead to a decline in native populations. Additionally, there is a risk of gene transfer to wild populations through hybridization, potentially leading to unforeseen ecological consequences.
Step 8
d) (iii) Explain why some groups in society may have different views about the use of DNA technology to produce zebra fish.
Answer
Different groups in society may have varied perspectives on DNA technology for producing zebra fish due to ethical, environmental, and health concerns. Environmentalists might oppose it due to potential impacts on wildlife and ecosystems, fearing that genetically modified organisms could disrupt natural balances. Conversely, biotechnology proponents may argue that such technologies can lead to advances in pet care and biodiversity. Cultural views also play a role; some people may have ethical objections to genetic modification based on beliefs about nature and interference with natural processes.