The Pacific yew tree (Taxus brevifolia) produces a complex chemical compound called paclitaxel.
Suggest why cells in the Pacific yew tree produce paclitaxel.
Scientists have genetically modified yeast cells (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) to produce paclitaxel precursors in industrial fermenters.
Explain how yeast cells can be genetically modified to contain the gene required for paclitaxel synthesis.
Explain how an industrial fermenter can be used to grow these yeast cells and maintain an optimum rate of population growth.
