* Genetically Modified Organism (GMO): The E. coli bacteria has been modified in its genetic makeup through the introduction of foreign DNA, in this case, the genes responsible for producing human insulin.
* Recombinant Bacterium: The process of introducing the human insulin genes into the E. coli bacteria is called recombinant DNA technology. This involves inserting the desired genes into a bacterial plasmid, which acts as a carrier for the new genetic information. The E. coli then replicates, producing more bacteria that carry the human insulin gene.
Why is this important?
This technique allows us to mass-produce human insulin in a safe and efficient way. Before this technology, diabetics relied on insulin extracted from pigs and cows, which could cause allergic reactions and was not always readily available.
Key points to remember:
* This type of E. coli is safe for producing insulin because it's carefully engineered and controlled in a laboratory setting.
* The bacteria do not produce any other harmful substances.
* The insulin produced by this method is identical to the insulin naturally produced by the human body.
