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From ancient domestication to modern gene editing: How do we change plants and animals?
With the advancement of science and technology, genetic engineering technology has become the main method to change the genomes of plants and animals. These techniques allow scientists to insert, delete and modify DNA at multiple levels, from specific genes to changes across the entire genome. Whenever we create a single-use genetically modified organism (GMO), there are a series of rigorous steps that need to be followed.
The capabilities of genetic engineering are built on years of research and discovery of gene function and manipulation, developments that will allow us to perform even more precise genetic modifications in the near future.
First, scientists must select the gene they wish to insert, modify, or delete. Next, these genes need to be isolated and combined with other genetic elements to form a suitable vector. Through these vectors, researchers can insert desired genes into the host genome to create transgenic or edited organisms. Such a process involves not only biological changes but also ethical and social aspects.
History of gene editing
Artificial manipulation of genes began with the domestication of plants and animals about 12,000 years ago. Ancient humans gradually accumulated an understanding of heredity through artificial selection and reproduction technology, which also laid the foundation for genetic engineering. In the 1870s, genetics ushered in a new revolution with Gregor Mendel's genetic inheritance experiments.
At the same time as the gene cut and paste technology emerged, many scientists worked hard to reveal the composition and characteristics of DNA, forming the foundation of modern genetic manipulation.
Selection of target genes
Selecting and determining the gene to be inserted into the host organism is one of the most important steps in the entire gene editing process. This process depends on the end goal of the GMO and may involve only one or two genes, or even an entire biosynthetic pathway. After finding the target gene, researchers can use a variety of bioengineering techniques to store and improve it.
Gene manipulation technology
Every process of gene editing involves modification of DNA. Initially, DNA is extracted from cells and then cloned and modified. Modern engineering technology makes the process from extraction, isolation to transformation smoother. Through specialized enzymes and chemicals, scientists are now able to precisely cut and glue DNA sequences to form the desired recombinant DNA.
Insert DNA into the host genome
Stable integration of genes is critical to the successful creation of GMOs. For plants, after genes are transferred into plant cells, rhizobia are often used to further integrate the DNA into the plant genome. In animal cells, genes are injected into young embryos through microinjection and other methods, laying the foundation for the subsequent creation of transgenic animals.
Technology and future prospects
Since 2009, with the emergence of new technologies such as CRISPR, the accuracy and convenience of gene editing have improved significantly. This not only changed scientific research, but also affected many fields such as agriculture, biomedicine and environmental protection. With the advancement of technology, human beings' understanding and manipulation of the genome are also constantly deepening.
We must ask ourselves, in the face of this powerful gene editing technology, should we choose to use it responsibly or take risks at will?
Where will genetic technology go in the future? Will it bring more challenges and opportunities?
