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DNA Technology
Overview
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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
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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
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Recombinant DNA technology provides
a means to transplant genes from one
species into the genome of another.
Probes
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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
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Gel electrophoresis makes it possible to
separate and isolate DNA restriction
fragments.
Polymerase Chain Reaction
(PCR)
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The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is
a technique for quickly making many
copies of DNA in vitro.
Hybridization
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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
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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
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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
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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