| Date | May 2015 | Marks available | 2 | Reference code | 15M.3.HL.TZ2.8 |
| Level | Higher level | Paper | Paper 3 | Time zone | Time zone 2 |
| Command term | Outline | Question number | 8 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Outline how a defective gene can be replaced using viral vectors.
Markscheme
a. viral vector modified to include healthy gene;
b. virus is taken up by cells;
c. inserts normal gene into chromosome;
d. white blood cells / bone marrow/other cells replaced into patient;
Examiners report
There was a range of answers about using viral vectors: although some provided clear and complete answers, many did not use appropriate terminology or were incomplete; others showed only a vague understanding of the process or confused it with other processes related to biotechnology.
Syllabus sections
Option B: Biotechnology and bioinformatics » Option B: Biotechnology and bioinformatics (Additional higher level topics) » B.4 Medicine
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