Genetic Engineering (GE) is a highly complicated
and advanced branch of science which involves a wide range of techniques used
in changing the genetic material in the DNA code in a living organism. 'Genetic
Engineering' means the deliberate modification of the characters of an organism
by the manipulation of its genetic material. Genetic engineering comes
under the broad heading of Biotechnology. There is a great scope in this field
as the demand for genetic engineers are growing in India as well as abroad.
A cell is the smallest living unit, the basic structural and functional unit
of all living matter, whether a plant, an animal, humans or a fungus. While
some organisms are single celled, others like plants, animals, humans etc
are made up of a lot more cells. For eg humans have approximately 3 million
cells. A cell is composed of a 'cell membrane' enclosing the whole cell, many
'organelles' equivalent to the organs in the body and a 'nucleus' which is
the command centre of the cell. Inside the nucleus are the chromosomes which
is the storage place for all genetic (hereditary) information which determines
the nature and characteristics of an organism. This information is written
along the thin thread, called DNA, a nucleic acid which constitutes the genes
(units of heredity). The DNA governs cell growth and is responsible for the
transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next.
Genetic engineering aims to re-arrange
the sequence of DNA in gene using artificial methods. The work of a genetic engineer
involves extracting the DNA out of one organism, changing it using chemicals or
radiation and subsequently putting it back into the same or a different organism.
For eg: genes and segments of DNA from one species is taken and put into another
species. They also study how traits and characteristics are transmitted through
the generations, and how genetic disorders are caused. Their research involves
researching the causes and discovering potential cures if any.
Genetic
engineering have specialisations related to plants, animals and human beings.
Genetic engineering in plants and animals may be to improve certain natural characteristics
of value, to increase resistance to disease or damage and to develop new characteristics
etc. It is used to change the colour, size, texture etc of plants otherwise known
as GM (Genetically Modified) foods. GE in humans can be to correct severe
hereditary defects by introducing normal genes into cells in place of missing
or defective ones.
Eligibility : The basic eligibility criteria
for a graduate degree (BE / B.Tech) is 10+2 or equivalent examination, with Biology,
Chemistry and Mathematics as well as genetics as part of the biology OR a bachelors
degree in science or molecular biology. Click
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Career Options & Job Prospects
: There is an increasing demand for genetic engineers in India as well as
abroad. Genetic engineers are mainly absorbed in medical and pharmaceutical industries,
the agricultural sector, and the research and development departments of the government
and private sectors. They can also take up teaching as an option. Click
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Remunerations : Genetic Engineers with
a postgraduate degree can earn between 5000 Rs to 8000Rs Click
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Institutes : Genetics is offered
at the undergraduate level, at Kakatiya University, Warangal and Osmania University,
Hyderabad, both in Andhra Pradesh. Click
here to know more
