Question

Give a brief account of the tools of recombinant DNA technology.

Answer 1

Recombinant DNA technology is the method which helps in the production of transgenic organisms. There are certain tools which are used in this technique. The basic steps involved in the process of DNA technology are as follows.

(i) Genomic DNA: The genomic DNA is isolated from a donor. The desired gene is isolated from this DNA.

(ii) Vector: The vector which is generally a plasmid is used for the insertion of the desired gene.

(iii) Restriction endonucleases: These are the enzymes which are used for the fragmentation of the DNA. sing restriction enzymes such as endonucleases the DNA is fragmented. Endonuclease enzymes are known as molecular scissors as they produce nick in the DNA fragment at the desired place.

(iv) Ligase: This is the enzyme which is used for the ligation of the two fragments. The desired gene is introduced in the vector and attached with the help of ligase enzyme.

(v) Host: The recombinant vector is introduced into a competent host cell. The host cells are cloned or replicated for the production of more number of recombinant vectors which can be used for the formation of product.