K325 / 2027

Chapter 12 / 6 short lessons

Molecular genetics

Connect DNA to genes and proteins, then explain gene transfer and evaluate genetic engineering.

G3 Pure Biology / K325 / 2027 syllabus

What do you think?

If a bacterium receives a suitable human insulin gene, does it become a human cell?

Lessons

0 of 6 marked as read
01

DNA, genes and chromosomes

Explain that genes are DNA sequences carried on chromosomes and act as units of inheritance.

About 4 min
About 4 min
02

DNA structure and base pairing

Describe the DNA double helix and nucleotide components, and apply complementary base pairing.

About 5 min
About 5 min
03

From a gene to a polypeptide

Connect the order of DNA bases to a specific polypeptide and its possible function.

About 5 min
About 5 min
04

Transferring a gene between organisms

Explain gene transfer and the formation of a transgenic organism.

About 4 min
About 4 min
05

Using bacteria to produce human insulin

Outline how an insulin-coding sequence is inserted into bacterial DNA and used in biotechnology.

About 5 min
About 5 min
06

Evaluating genetic engineering

Discuss potential benefits and ethical considerations in medicine, plants and animals.

About 6 min
About 6 min
What you will be able to do
  • Relate DNA, genes and chromosomes and apply base-pairing rules.
  • Explain how genetic information specifies polypeptides.
  • Describe gene transfer and evaluate its uses and ethical questions.

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