# Evaluate the use of genetic modification to produce insulin in bacteria as a treatment for people with diabetes.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 21.3 Genetic modification · Evaluate · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Advantage: genetically modified bacteria produce human insulin, so it is identical to the insulin naturally made in the human body
2. Advantage: insulin can be produced in large quantities / at low cost
3. Disadvantage: long-term health impacts of using GM-produced insulin are not fully known
4. Disadvantage: ethical concerns about manipulating / altering the genetic material of organisms OR concern about releasing genetically modified organisms into the environment

## Key terms

- [genetic modification](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/genetic-modification)
- [insulin](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/insulin)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Evaluate" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/evaluate-the-use-of-genetic-modification-f6e9f18a) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.