Recombinant DNA technology (Genetic Engineering) allows genes to be t...
GENETIC ENGINEERING (RECOMBINANT DNA TECHNOLOGY):
- The process of altering the chemistry of genetic material and then introducing it to the host organism so as to change the phenotype of the host organism is termed as Genetic Engineering.
- Genetic Engineering incorporates in itself these 3 processes: recombining DNA, gene cloning, and gene transfer.
- As the name suggests, Recombinant DNA technology is a technique through which DNA from different sources is combined to form a new DNA sequence.
- The recombined DNA from different species is then inserted into a host organism that produces a new genetic composition that is superior to the original DNA.
- The recombined DNA is inserted in such a way that it becomes the part of the chromosome that has a specific sequence known as the origin of replication.
- Tools of Recombinant DNA technology include Restriction Enzymes (molecular scissors), Cloning Vectors, and Competent Host.
- Steps of Recombinant DNA technology include Isolation of Genetic Material, Cutting of DNA at Specific Locations, Amplification of Gene of Interest using PCR, Introduction of the Recombinant DNA into the Host Cell/Organism, Obtaining the Foreign Gene Product, and Downstream Processing.
- The technique finds application in many fields like: science, agriculture, medicine, and industry.
Important Point - The first antibiotic-resistant recombinant DNA was constructed using the DNA of Salmonella typhimurium bacteria and was inserted into Escherichia coli.
- This was accomplished by Stanley Cohen and Herbert Boyer in the year 1972.
Recombinant DNA technology (Genetic Engineering) allows genes to be t...
Recombinant DNA Technology and Genetic Engineering
Recombinant DNA technology or genetic engineering is the process of manipulating genes in living organisms to produce desired traits. It allows the transfer of genes from one organism to another, which can result in the creation of new organisms with specific traits.
Transfer of Genes
Recombinant DNA technology enables the transfer of genes across different species of plants, animals, and microorganisms. The correct answer to the given question is option D, which includes all three options.
1. Transfer of Genes across Different Species of Plants
Recombinant DNA technology enables the transfer of genes across different species of plants. It is used to create plants with desirable traits such as resistance to pests, herbicides, and diseases. For example, genes from a bacteria that produces a protein that is toxic to pests can be transferred to a plant, making it resistant to pests.
2. Transfer of Genes from Animals to Plants
Recombinant DNA technology also allows the transfer of genes from animals to plants. It is used to create plants with desirable traits such as increased nutritional value or resistance to diseases. For example, genes from a fish that produces a protein that is high in Omega-3 fatty acids can be transferred to a plant, making it more nutritious.
3. Transfer of Genes from Microorganisms to Higher Organisms
Recombinant DNA technology also enables the transfer of genes from microorganisms to higher organisms such as plants and animals. It is used to create organisms with desirable traits such as improved disease resistance or increased production of a particular protein. For example, genes from a bacterium that produces insulin can be transferred to a plant, making it produce insulin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, recombinant DNA technology enables the transfer of genes across different species of plants, from animals to plants, and from microorganisms to higher organisms. This technology has various applications in agriculture, medicine, and industry.