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The diagram shows a bacterial cell - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 1 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 1
The diagram shows a bacterial cell. (a) What is the part of the bacterial cell labelled Z? Put a cross (X) in the box next to your answer. A chromosomal DNA B flag... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows a bacterial cell - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 1 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Name two structures other than DNA, that bacterial cells have but animal cells do not.
Answer
Two structures that bacterial cells have but animal cells do not are:
- Plasmids - small circular DNA molecules that can replicate independently of chromosomal DNA.
- Cell wall - a rigid structure that provides support and protection, composed mainly of peptidoglycan.
Step 3
Describe how the plasmid can be used to genetically modify a bacterial cell to contain a human gene.
Answer
To genetically modify a bacterial cell using a plasmid, the following steps can be taken:
- Isolate the human gene of interest.
- Cut the plasmid with restriction enzymes to create complementary ends.
- Insert the human gene into the cut plasmid, using ligase to seal the DNA.
- Introduce the recombinant plasmid into the bacterial cell through transformation.
- Allow the bacterial cell to replicate, producing copies of the human gene.
Step 4
Suggest how a named product from genetically modified (GM) bacteria can benefit humans.
Answer
An example of a product from genetically modified bacteria is insulin. GM bacteria can be engineered to produce human insulin, which is critical for the treatment of diabetes. This allows for the production of insulin in large quantities, making it readily available for patients in need.