1. Transformation, conjugation, and transduction were discovered in the laboratory. How important are these mechanisms of genetic recombination in nature? 2. Use the internet to investigate DNA fingerprinting. What is this process, and how is it used in criminal forensics?
3. How can plasmids be used to manufacture proteins such as insulin for diabetic patients, or antibiotics for bacterial infections?
4. Research a genetic disease that may be cured through the use of genetic engineering. What techniques are being explored to correct the problem? How do concerns of designer embryos stem from this technology?
5. How can DNA be fragmented into very specific sections?
6. What is one practical lab application for cutting DNA sequence into specific segments?
7. Where do restriction enzymes come from? What is their function in nature?