Lecture on Transgenic Organisms and Their Applications

Introduction

• Organisms with supernatural powers are no longer just in fiction.
• Biotechnology has allowed for practical applications in fields like agriculture, environment, and healthcare.
• Focus on transgenic organisms, also known as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).

What are Transgenic or Genetically Modified Organisms?

• Definition: An organism with DNA from another organism integrated into its genome.
• Example: Mice engineered to glow in the dark by gene manipulation.

Example of Transgenic Plant: Bt Cotton

Bt Cotton Overview

• Bt stands for "Bacillus thuringiensis," not "Biotechnology."
• Bacillus thuringiensis is a bacterium that acts against insect pests.

The Concept of "The Enemy of My Enemy"

• Cotton plants' enemies are insects.
• Bacillus thuringiensis produces toxins harmful to these insects, making the bacterium an ally to cotton plants.

The Role of Toxins and Cry Genes

• Bacteria produce proteins (toxins) that kill insects like cotton bollworms.
• The gene coding for these toxins is called the "cry" gene.
• In bacterial cells, toxins are inactive due to crystal form and activate in the insect gut's pH.

Genetic Engineering Process

• "Cry" gene inserted into the cotton plant using gene transfer methods.
• In cotton plants, the toxins also remain in inactive crystalized form.
• Upon insect consumption, toxins activate and kill the insect by damaging its gut.
• This provides cotton plants with natural pest resistance.

Applications and Benefits

• Transgenic plants can be engineered for improved resistance and higher yield.
• Various beneficial traits can be incorporated in plants.
• Transgenic animals are also valuable for research purposes.

Conclusion

• Transgenic organisms have vast potential in multiple fields.
• Next discussion will focus on transgenic animals.