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Applied Genetic Modification
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Although they are best known for their
use in agriculture to increase yields and fight crop diseases,
genetic modification techniques are used in many different
areas of biological research, including medicine. In this
case study, we'll follow the process of developing an
edible vaccine for the hepatitis B virus and explore practical
details of genetic engineering techniques.
The current hepatitis B vaccine is a recombinant subunit
produced in yeast. Subunit vaccines are viral proteins
that elicit an immune response without viral genetic material.
The current vaccine is effective, but cost-prohibitive
for economically challenged areas. A better option that
is more easily administered might be an edible vaccine
from a plant genetically modified to express a hepatitis
B protein. No needles are required — the vaccine
is just eaten.
Before beginning this case study, you may want
to review these related materials:
• Genetically
Modified Organisms Video
• Genetically
Modified Organisms Online Text
Non-Flash
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