# GM crops have been developed that are resistant to insect pests. Explain how a gene from another organism could be transferred into a crop plant to produce a genetically modified (GM) crop.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1) — 5.3 Genetic modification (genetic engineering) · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A restriction enzyme is used to cut / isolate the desired gene from the donor organism's chromosome / DNA
2. A vector (e.g. a plasmid or virus) is used to carry / transfer the gene into the plant cell
3. Ligase is used to join / seal the desired gene into the vector / plasmid, forming recombinant DNA
4. The vector / recombinant DNA is transferred into the crop plant cell, so the plant expresses the desired gene / characteristic (e.g. pest resistance)

## Key terms

- [GM crops](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/gm-crops)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/gm-crops-have-been-developed-that-70e924ff) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.