AQA GCSE Biology

Genetic engineering

AQA GCSE Biology revision on Genetic engineering. Aligned to the AQA GCSE Biology 8461 specification. This bank has 25 practice questions on this topic.

Sample questions (3 of 25)

  1. Question 1

    What is the primary role of an enzyme during the process of genetic engineering?

    • A) To replicate DNA strands
    • B) To cut specific DNA genes
    • C) To join DNA segments up
    • D) To identify donor cells
    Show answer

    Answer: To cut specific DNA genes

    Restriction enzymes are used to cut the DNA at specific sequences to isolate the desired gene from the donor organism's genome. Once isolated, a different enzyme called ligase is used to join the gene into the vector, such as a plasmid.

  2. Question 2

    Which component is commonly utilised as a vector to transfer foreign DNA into a bacterial cell?

    • A) A bacterial ribosome
    • B) A circular plasmid
    • C) A protein capsule
    • D) A nuclear membrane
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    Answer: A circular plasmid

    Plasmids are small, circular rings of DNA found in bacteria that can be easily extracted, modified with a desired gene, and re-inserted. Because they exist independently of the main bacterial chromosome, they are the ideal delivery vehicle for genetic engineering.

  3. Question 3

    At what stage of development is the gene transferred into an organism to ensure the desired trait is expressed in all cells?

    • A) Adult tissue stage
    • B) Early embryo stage
    • C) Gamete fusion stage
    • D) Final somatic stage
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    Answer: Early embryo stage

    If a gene is transferred into an early embryo, the cells will divide via mitosis, passing the modified DNA to every new cell. If the gene is introduced into an adult, only the target tissue is affected, and the trait will not be inherited by subsequent generations.

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