Applied Science BTEC Nationals/Genetics and Genetic Engineering

Content

On completion of this unit a learner should:

1. Understand the processes of cell division and the principles of classical genetics

2. Be able to apply basic techniques of DNA technology

3. Know how gene expression can be controlled

4. Know how genetic engineering can be applied and the possible commercial, social and ethical impact of these applications.

Resources

Edexcel recommend the following resources.

Textbooks

Adds J, Larkcom E and Miller R — Molecules and Cells (Nelson Advanced Science: Biology Series) (Nelson Thornes Ltd, 2003) ISBN 074877484X

Adds J, Larkcom E and Miller R — Genetics, Evolution and Biodiversity (Nelson Advanced Science: Biology Series) (Nelson Thornes Ltd, 2004) ISBN 0748774920

Giddings G, Jones N and Karp A — The Essentials of Genetics (Hodder Murray, 2001) ISBN 0719586119

Journals

Biological Science Review

New Scientist

Scientific American

Websites

Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry animation of genetic engineering.

Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry animation of PCR.

Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry animation of DNA sequencing.

Virtual FlyLab.

DNA interactive (by Cold Spring Harbour Laboratory).

Gene Almanac DNA animations (by Cold Spring Harbour Laboratory).

DNA detective (by Cold Spring Harbour laboratory)'

National Centre for Biotechnology Education.

Virtual Cell Animations (including transcription, translation and lac operon).