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A US company has recently released what is believed to be the first designer transgenic pet - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 5 - 2004 - Paper 1
Question 5
A US company has recently released what is believed to be the first designer transgenic pet. The 'Glofish' is derived from the zebra fish, which is normally silver w... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A US company has recently released what is believed to be the first designer transgenic pet - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 5 - 2004 - Paper 1
Step 1
a. What feature of the genetic code makes it possible for a gene to be transferred from one species to another and to be expressed in the second species?
Answer
The genetic code is universal, meaning that the codons in mRNA code for the same amino acids irrespective of species. This universality allows genes from different species to be expressed in a host organism, as the same proteins can be produced regardless of the original source of the gene.
Step 2
b. What steps are required, within the zebra fish cells, for the sea coral gene to be expressed?
Answer
First, the DNA containing the sea coral gene is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) within the nucleus of the zebra fish cells. Then, this mRNA is translated into a polypeptide or protein at the ribosomes in the cytoplasm. This involves recognizing the correct codons on the mRNA and assembling the corresponding amino acids to form the protein coded by the sea coral gene.
Step 3
c. Predict the chance of survival of the Glofish if it were released into the natural environment of the zebra fish. Explain your answer.
Answer
The chance of survival of the Glofish in the natural environment of the zebra fish is likely to be low. The Glofish, being noticeably different due to its bright coloration, would stand out to predators, making it more vulnerable than the wild zebra fish, which is typically silver with black stripes. This increased visibility could lead to higher predation rates, ultimately affecting its chances of survival in the wild.