# Explain how genetic engineering can be used to produce a crop plant that is resistant to insect damage.

> Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 4.3 Selective breeding and genetic engineering · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A restriction enzyme is used to cut the desired gene (e.g. the gene for insect resistance) from the donor organism's DNA
2. This produces sticky ends on the DNA fragment
3. The gene is inserted into a vector, and ligase joins the sticky ends to form recombinant DNA
4. The recombinant DNA / vector is transferred into the crop plant cells so the plant expresses the desired characteristic (insect resistance)

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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