10 Questions
Which type of DNA molecule is able to maintain itself by autonomous replication?
Plasmid
What technology is used to fuse foreign DNA to isolated plasmids?
Recombinant DNA technology
What is the main replicon used as a carrier for foreign DNA fragment?
Bacterial plasmid
Why are small microbial plasmids popular as vectors in biotechnology?
They can be easily isolated as intact circular double-stranded molecules
When did genetic modification of organisms become feasible?
When recombinant DNA technology was developed
What is the main function of a vector in recombinant DNA technology?
To serve as a carrier for foreign DNA fragments
Why are small microbial plasmids popular as vectors in biotechnology?
They can be easily isolated as intact circular double-stranded molecules
What is the purpose of recombinant DNA technology or DNA cloning technology?
To fuse foreign DNA to isolated plasmids and create hybrid molecules
What enabled the fusion of any DNA fragment to replicons or vectors in recombinant DNA technology?
Recombinant DNA technology
What occurs when free foreign DNA does not self-replicate during cell propagation/division?
Degradation through activity of cellular nuclease
Study Notes
Early Attempts at Genetic Manipulation
- After discovering DNA's role in hereditary properties, investigators tried to manipulate genetic properties of cells by adding foreign DNA to microbial, plant, or animal cells.
- These attempts failed due to two main reasons:
Limitations of DNA Uptake
- Only a limited number of bacterial species can spontaneously take up DNA.
- Most bacteria, animal, and plant species are unable to take up DNA spontaneously.
Maintenance of Foreign DNA
- Foreign DNA will only be maintained in a receptor cell if:
- It can replicate autonomously (e.g., circular DNA like bacterial chromosomes or plasmids).
- It is integrated into the recipient genome.
- In all other cases, foreign DNA will not be propagated in cell culture and will eventually disappear.
Test your knowledge on the reasons for the lack of success in manipulating genetic properties through recombinant DNA technology. Learn about the challenges encountered when attempting to add foreign DNA to microbial, plant, or animal cells.
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