the complementary sticky end. Mixed together, these molecules can join with each other by the base pairing between their sticky ends. The union can be made permanent by another enzyme, DNA ligase, which forms covalent bonds between the molecules. The result is a molecule of recombinant DNA (rDNA). The ability to produce recombinant DNA molecules has not only revolutionized the study of genetics, but has laid the foundation for much of the biotechnology industry. In humans, recombinant DNA is the basis of gene therapy, in which the DNA is introduced into body, or somatic cells, where it may alter their genetic makeup. These alterations cannot be passed to future generations since sperm and eggs, or germ cells, are not affected.There are many methods of introducing new genetic material into a cell or organism, or altering the existing material. A vector is something that can carry the gene into the host, or rather into the nucleus of a host cell. Special viruses have been altered and put to use, which can introduce new genetic material to an organism. One such virus is the adenovirus, which affects the respiratory system. The adenovirus equipped with genetic altered material is inserted into the host and then the virus inserts its genome into the host. The host then divides spreading the genetically engineered material. Another way is through liposomes, which are injectable microscopic fatty globules that can enclose and protect DNA. In lame man’s terms it means to enclose the gene in the cell membrane of an organism and then the membrane will recognize certain cells. Vectors are commonly bacterial plasmids (see below and next page) or viruses Another method is the "SHOTGUN TECHNIQUE" which blindly shoots masses of tiny gold particles coated with the gene into a plate of cells, hoping to land a hit somewhere in the cell's DNA I’m strongly for the uses of genetic engineering in advancing medicine. Gene therapy can be used to tr...
