Overview and Objectives - Gene Constructs
This lesson builds upon the gene region lesson discussing the gene construct of currently used hybrids and explaining how these combinations result in a particular gene expression. At the completion of this lesson, you should be able to:
- List four considerations genetic engineers must keep in mind when designing genes and which gene region controls each.
- Explain the difference between input and output traits and give an example of each.
- Predict how modification of a gene will influence gene expression, specifically which protein is produced, when it is produced, and how much is produced.
- Identify the gene construct and explain the expression of Bt, Liberty resistant, and Roundup resistant lines.
- Describe how transgene expression can cause undesired effects (yield drag).
Development of this lesson was supported in part by Cooperative State Research, Education, & Extension Service, U.S. Dept of Agriculture under Agreement Number 98-EATP-1-0403 administered by Cornell University and the American Distance Education Consortium (ADEC). Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.