Potential questions for Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level for use with Question 8 – Unit 5, June 2024
In unit 5, the last question (question 8) is based on a pre-released scientific article a total of 30 marks.
In this document, you will find potential questions and answers for t...
WBI15/01– Article potential questions Biology A Level Tutor
Potential questions for Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level
for use with Question 8 – Unit 5, June 2024
In unit 5, the last question (question 8) is based on a pre-released scientific article a total of 30
marks.
In this document, you will find potential questions and answers for the Scientific Article for
question 8 for Biology IAL (International Advanced Level) WBI15/01.
(The article is provided by Pearson Edexcel Examination – June 2024)
This document consists of
o Article Summary (245 words) and a more concise version of 68 words
o Five (5) Key Takeaways for the entire article (these are the things you should know and
understand from this article before the exam).
o Vocabulary and Definitions of unknown words for each paragraph
o Key Take aways for each of the 3 sub-articles and each paragraph
o 119 potential questions each with its answer
➢ The questions are based on the scientific article
➢ 80% of them are linked to the syllabus, thus this document can be used for
revision as well
➢ Includes definitions
The article is available at the end of this booklet.
1
,WBI15/01– Article potential questions Biology A Level Tutor
Summary of the article (245 words):
One remarkable example of horizontal gene transfer involves a whitefly species acquiring plant DNA,
providing protection against leaf toxins. The discovery of the BtPMaT1 gene, originally from plants, in the
silverleaf whitefly suggests an evolutionary adaptation aiding both plant and insect survival. This genetic
transfer, likely facilitated by plant viruses transmitted by whiteflies, underscores the underestimated extent
of gene exchange in nature. Researchers demonstrated the function of BtPMaT1 in whiteflies, suggesting
its potential application in engineering crops for pest resistance. Conversely, this raises concerns about
pests evolving resistance to genetically engineered crops.
Another area of genetic modification involves GloFish®, fluorescent zebrafish engineered with genes from
sea coral. Detection methods, such as PCR, help identify transgenic zebrafish, which are illegal in many
countries. By amplifying specific genes, PCR enables the detection of transgenic traits, revealing the
presence of GloFish® among specimens. Additionally, rapid screening methods based on protein
fluorescence aid in identifying genetically modified zebrafish.
Furthermore, genetically engineered "skinbow" zebrafish possess fluorescent skin cells of various colors,
offering a novel model for studying cell dynamics and tissue regeneration. Injecting fluorescent genes into
zebrafish embryos results in unpredictable yet visually striking color patterns in skin cells. Live imaging of
skin cell turnover and response to injury provides insights into tissue regeneration mechanisms, promising
advancements in skin biology research. Skinbow zebrafish offer a unique opportunity to explore tissue
regeneration processes and may contribute to a deeper understanding of wound healing mechanisms,
representing a significant advancement in biological research.
The summary of the summary is (68 words):
Whiteflies exhibit horizontal gene transfer with plants, acquiring protective genes like BtPMaT1. This
mechanism, potentially facilitated by plant viruses, highlights underestimated gene exchange in nature.
Genetic modification in GloFish® enables fluorescence detection through PCR, aiding in regulatory
enforcement. Skinbow zebrafish, with fluorescent skin cells, offer a model for studying tissue regeneration
dynamics. These advancements promise insights into wound healing and skin biology, marking significant
progress in biological research.
2
,WBI15/01– Article potential questions Biology A Level Tutor
Key Take Aways (You need to know and understand the following before the exam):
1. Horizontal Gene Transfer: A groundbreaking discovery reveals the transfer of plant DNA
into a whitefly's genome, offering insight into genetic exchange between species.
2. Genetic Engineering: The introduction of a plant gene, BtPMaT1, into the whitefly genome
highlights the potential for manipulating genetic material to confer beneficial traits.
3. Evolutionary Insights: The gene transfer event, occurring millions of years ago, sheds light
on the evolutionary divergence of whitefly species and their interaction with plants and
viruses.
4. Pest Management: By understanding the function of BtPMaT1 in whiteflies, researchers
demonstrate a potential method for targeting plant pests and enhancing crop resistance
through genetic manipulation.
5. Technological Advancements: Cutting-edge techniques such as PCR-based methods and
fluorescence detection enable the identification and tracking of transgenic organisms,
facilitating research and regulation in biotechnology.
3
, WBI15/01– Article potential questions Biology A Level Tutor
Questions, Answers, Vocabulary and Definitions per Paragraph:
Article 1:
Key takeaway: Horizontal gene transfer between plants and insects may occur, as evidenced by
the incorporation of a plant gene into the genome of the silverleaf whitefly, providing protection
from plant toxins. This discovery highlights the potential for genetic information exchange
between organisms and its implications for survival.
Paragraph 1:
Genome: the complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
Horizontal gene transfer: the transfer of genetic material between organisms, other than through
typical inheritance.
Paragraph Takeaway: Horizontal gene transfer between plants and insects may occur, facilitating
the acquisition of useful genetic material by the silverleaf whitefly from plants, aiding in defense
against toxins.
1. How does the incorporation of plant DNA into the genome of the whitefly benefit its
survival? (1 Mark)
The incorporation of plant DNA into the whitefly's genome protects it from leaf toxins,
potentially helping it avoid being poisoned when consuming plants.
2. Acquiring new characteristics is called adaptations. What does adaptation mean? (1 Mark)
A feature that increases the chances of an organism surviving
3. State the three main ways that a species can be adapted. (3 Marks)
o Behavioural
o Physiological
o Anatomical
4. Define the word genome. (1 Mark)
The entire DNA (alleles) in a species
4
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