Question

How biotechnology is used in production of Human insulin.

Answer 1

Biotechnology is used in the production of human Insulin:

i. Isolation of DNA (gene) from the donor organism: 

• The desire gene to be cloned is obtained from the source organism (donor). Initially, the cells of the donor organism are sheared in a blender and treated with a suitable detergent.
• Genetic material from the donor is isolated and purified using several techniques.
• Isolated DNA can be spooled on to a glass rod.

ii. Insertion into a Plasmid

• The insulin gene is inserted into a plasmid (a circular DNA molecule commonly found in bacteria) using restriction enzymes that cut DNA at specific sites.
• DNA ligase then joins the human insulin gene with the plasmid, creating recombinant DNA.

iii. Transformation into Host Bacteria

• The recombinant plasmid is introduced into bacteria (commonly E. coli). These bacteria are now genetically modified to carry and express the human insulin gene.

iv. Cloning and Protein Expression

• The modified bacteria multiply rapidly, each producing insulin protein as they grow and divide.
• The human insulin gene directs these bacteria to produce insulin in the same way they would a natural protein.

v. Harvesting and Purification

• The insulin is then harvested from the bacterial cells and purified to ensure it is safe and suitable for human use.

vi. Formulation for Medical

• The purified insulin is formulated into a form suitable for injection and distributed for use in diabetes management.