Rucete ✏ Biology In a Nutshell
1. What Is Recombinant DNA?
Recombinant DNA refers to genetic material that has been artificially created by combining DNA from two different sources.
It allows scientists to insert genes from one organism into another, producing new traits or functions.
2. Restriction Enzymes
- Also called endonucleases
- These enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences, often producing sticky ends
- Sticky ends are single-stranded overhangs that can easily bind with complementary sequences on other DNA molecules
3. Vectors
- Vectors are vehicles used to carry foreign DNA into a host cell
- Common vectors:
- Plasmids (circular DNA in bacteria)
- Viruses (in advanced genetic engineering)
4. Cloning
- Process of making identical copies of recombinant DNA
- After the recombinant DNA is inserted into a host, the host reproduces, copying the inserted DNA with it
5. Gel Electrophoresis
- A technique used to separate DNA fragments by size
- DNA samples are loaded into a gel, and an electric current pulls them through
- Smaller fragments move faster, creating a banding pattern
6. PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
- A method to amplify DNA (make many copies of a small DNA segment)
- Requires:
- Primers
- DNA polymerase
- Nucleotides (dNTPs)
- Widely used in forensics, diagnostics, and gene cloning
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Biology in a nutshell