DNA Technology

Overview DNA technology makes it possible to

clone genes for basic research and commercial applications

DNA technology is a powerful set of techniques that enables biologists to manipulate and analyze genetic material

Genetic engineering is the creation of useful new products and organisms using techniques of gene manipulation

The Toolkit for DNA technology includes restriction enzymes, DNA vectors, and host organisms

Either plasmids or bacteriophages can serve as vectors (carriers) to introduce recombinant DNA molecules into host cells.

Recombinant DNA is made by inserting a piece of DNA containing a gene of interest into the plasmid or phage DNA that has been clipped by restriction enzymes. In either case, gene cloning results when the foreign genes replicate inside the host bacterium or other host cell.

Although bacteria are the most common host organisms for cloning, DNA can be introduced directly into certain eukaryotic cells as well.

Recombinant DNA Recombinant DNA technology

provides a means to transplant genes from one species into the genome of another.

Probes The selection of a desired gene in

recombinant DNA can be accomplished using radioactively labeled nucleic acid segments of complementary sequence called probes.

Gel electrophoresis Gel electrophoresis makes it

possible to separate and isolate DNA restriction fragments.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) The polymerase chain reaction

(PCR) is a technique for quickly making many copies of DNA in vitro.

Hybridization Hybridization is a general

technique for detecting a specific gene or mRNA, by allowing a labeled probe with the complementary sequence to bind to the target molecule.

RFLPs Restriction fragment length polymorphisms

(RFLPs) are differences in DNA sequence on homologous chromosomes that result in different patterns of restrictions fragment lengths. RFLP patterns are visualized as bands on gel electrophoresis or Southern blots. RFLP analysis has many applications, including genetic mapping for basic research and diagnosing genetic disorders.

Progress DNA technology is catalyzing progress

in many fields of biology. In vitro mutagenesis can alter a specific

gene and make it possible for researchers to deduce the normal gene’s function.

Recombinant DNA technology has enabled investigators to answer questions about molecular evolution.

The Human Genome Project The Human Genome Project’s

purpose is to map and sequence DNA.

It is an international research effort Project involves linkage mapping,

physical mapping, and sequencing of the entire human genome