Genetic Transformation

ALVAREZ, MA (ED)

Intech Open Access Publishers

Año: 2011 p. 300

978-953-307-364-4

Genetic transformation is defined as the genetic alteration of the cell resulting from uptake, incorporation and expression of genetic material from the extracellular environment. It occurs most commonly in bacteria and in some species, it occurs naturally. Transformation can also be affected by the artificial means, by inserting new genetic materials into non-bacterial cells such as animal and plant cells. Genetic transformation has been essential for the remarkable progress in molecular genetics and biotechnological breakthroughs. It has been crucial to elucidating gene regulatory networks in a number of model organisms. However, recognizing that the transformation of genes into living organisms is a sensitive subject, the benefits and risks of genetic transformation should be understood better. The book should give a comprehensive overview of the field from basic principals of gene manipulation and transgenic plants and animals to the current applications, controversies and future perspectives of genetic transformation.