Basic concept about recombinant DNA technology

Introduction:-

> The technology of recombinant DNA was developed in 1973 by Boyer and Cohen.

> It is popularly known as genetic engineering. 

> Recombinat DNA:- When foreign gene is inserted into a vector, then it is called as recombinant DNA.

> Objective:- This is the natural mathod of amplification of gene of interest.

Process of Recombinant DNA Technology:- The complete process of recombinant DNA technology includes multiple steps-

Step-1. Isolation of Genetic Material:- The first and the initial step in Recombinant DNA technology is to isolate the desired DNA in its pure form i.e. free from other macromolecules.

Step-2.Cutting the gene at the recognition sites:- The restriction enzymes play a major role in determining the location at which the desired gene is inserted into the vector genome. These reactions are called ‘restriction enzyme digestions’.

Step-3. Ligation of DNA Molecules:- In this step of Ligation, the joining of the two pieces – a cut fragment of DNA and the vector together with the help of the enzyme DNA ligase.

Step-4. Insertion of Recombinant DNA Into Host:- In this step, the recombinant DNA is introduced into a recipient host cell. This process is termed as Transformation. Once the recombinant DNA is inserted into the host cell, it gets multiplied. As a result the inserted gene of interest is also multiplied.

Step-5. Amplifying the gene copies:- It is a process to amplify a single copy of DNA into thousands to millions of copies once the proper gene of interest has been cut using restriction enzymes.

Application of Recombinant DNA Technology:-

> DNA technology is also used to detect the presence of HIV in a person.

> Gene Therapy:- It is used as an attempt to correct the gene defects which give rise to heredity diseases.

> Clinical diagnosis:- ELISA is an example where the application of recombinant

>Recombinant DNA technology is widely used in Agriculture to produce genetically-modified plants such as  Flavr Savr tomatoes, golden rice rich in proteins, and Bt-cotton to protect the plant against ball worms and a lot more.

> In the field of medicines, Recombinant DNA technology is used for the production of Insulin.