Edexcel GCSE Biology

Genetic engineering

Edexcel GCSE Biology revision on Genetic engineering. Aligned to the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Biology 1BI0 specification. This bank has 5 practice questions on this topic.

Sample questions (3 of 5)

  1. Question 1

    Which enzyme acts as the molecular scissors to cut open the bacterial plasmid during genetic engineering?

    • A) DNA polymerase
    • B) Restriction enzyme
    • C) Ligase enzyme
    • D) Amylase enzyme
    Show answer

    Answer: Restriction enzyme

    In genetic engineering, restriction enzymes identify specific base sequences on DNA and cut them. This creates 'sticky ends' that allow a gene of interest to be inserted into a plasmid vector. Other enzymes like ligase are then used to join the pieces together.

  2. Question 2

    What is the primary function of a vector in the process of genetic engineering?

    • A) To sequence DNA
    • B) To transfer genes
    • C) To create proteins
    • D) To digest the cell
    Show answer

    Answer: To transfer genes

    Plasmids or viruses are commonly used as vectors in genetic engineering. Their role is to transport the desired gene from the donor organism into the target host cell, such as a bacterium, where the gene can then be expressed.

  3. Question 3

    What is the specific name of the enzyme used to join the desired gene to the bacterial plasmid?

    Show answer

    Answer: Ligase

    Once a gene has been cut by a restriction enzyme and inserted into a plasmid, the sugar-phosphate backbone of the DNA must be repaired. DNA ligase performs this joining function, creating a continuous strand of recombinant DNA.

Want to test yourself on the remaining cards for this topic?

2 more questions on Genetic engineering — plus mistakes tracking and spaced repetition across the whole Biology spec.

Start a free session → Already have an account? Log in

More Edexcel Biology topics