Ethical Issues in Genomic Breeding
Expert-defined terms from the Postgraduate Certificate in Livestock Genomic Breeding course at UK School of Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Allele #
A variant form of a gene. Each parent contributes one allele for a particular gene to their offspring.
Biotechnology #
The use of biological systems, organisms, or derivatives to develop products or improve processes.
Cas9 #
A type of CRISPR-associated protein that acts as a pair of molecular scissors to cut DNA at a specific location.
CRISPR #
Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats. A technology used to edit genes by precisely modifying DNA sequences.
Designer Babies #
Offspring whose genetic makeup has been selected or modified to ensure specific traits.
Embryo #
An early stage of development before birth or hatching, in mammals, birds, and other animals.
Ethical Issues in Genomic Breeding #
Concerns and dilemmas related to the moral implications of using genetic techniques in livestock breeding.
Gene Editing #
The process of making precise changes to the DNA of a cell or organism.
Genetic Diversity #
The variety of genes within a species or population, which enables adaptation to changing environments.
Genetic Engineering #
The deliberate modification of the characteristics of an organism by manipulating its genetic material.
Genetic Modification #
Altering the genetic material of an organism using biotechnology.
Genetic Testing #
Analyzing a person's DNA to identify changes or mutations that may be associated with genetic disorders.
Genetics #
The study of genes, heredity, and genetic variation in living organisms.
Genome #
The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
Genomic Selection #
A breeding method that uses genomic information to predict the genetic merit of individuals.
Genotype #
The genetic makeup of an organism, as opposed to its physical characteristics (phenotype).
Heritability #
The proportion of observed variation in a particular trait that can be attributed to genetic factors.
Heterozygous #
Having two different alleles for a particular gene.
Homozygous #
Having two identical alleles for a particular gene.
Marker #
Assisted Selection: A breeding method that uses genetic markers to assist in selecting for specific traits.
Mutation #
A permanent change in the DNA sequence of a gene.
Phenotype #
The observable characteristics or traits of an organism, resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.
Recombinant DNA #
DNA that has been artificially combined from different sources.
Selective Breeding #
The process of choosing and mating individuals with desirable traits to produce offspring with those traits.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) #
A variation at a single position in a DNA sequence among individuals.
Transgene #
A gene that has been transferred from one organism to another.
Transgenic #
Refers to an organism that contains genes from another species.
Whole Genome Sequencing #
Determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism's genome.
Zygote #
A fertilized egg cell formed by the union of a sperm and an egg.
These terms are essential for understanding the ethical issues surrounding genom… #
By familiarizing oneself with these terms, individuals can better navigate the ethical considerations involved in utilizing genomic breeding techniques in the livestock industry.