Summary
Organisms carrying foreign genes stably integrated in their genome.
In depth
Methods: microinjection into pronuclei (mice), embryonic stem cells with homologous recombination (knockouts), Agrobacterium (plants). Uses: disease models, producing drugs in milk (pharming), crops.
Transgene expression depends on integration site and copy number. Knockout mice lack a gene and show its function; knock-ins insert variants. Conditional systems (Cre-lox) allow tissue-specific changes.
Example: oncomouse carries a cancer-promoting gene for research.
Frequently asked questions
What is Transgenic Organisms?
Organisms carrying foreign genes stably integrated in their genome.
Which area of biology covers Transgenic Organisms, and how advanced is it?
Transgenic Organisms is one of the 56 topics in Biotechnology & Genomics. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Recombinant DNA, RNA-Seq, Functional Genomics.
Can you give an example of Transgenic Organisms?
AquAdvantage salmon grows faster with a growth hormone gene.
What should I learn before Transgenic Organisms?
Work through the Beginner topics in Biotechnology & Genomics first, such as Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, Selective Breeding, then return to Transgenic Organisms. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Transgenic Organisms?
The closest topics to Transgenic Organisms are Recombinant DNA, RNA-Seq, Functional Genomics, DNA Microarrays. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Transgenic Organisms?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Transgenic Organisms. To practise the whole of Biotechnology & Genomics, use the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz.
How is Transgenic Organisms different from Recombinant DNA?
Transgenic Organisms: Organisms carrying foreign genes stably integrated in their genome. Recombinant DNA: DNA made by combining sequences from different sources, typically using restriction enzymes and ligase. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Transgenic Organisms step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Recombinant DNA and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.