Recombinant DNA Technology, Cloning and PCR

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to recombinant DNA technology, cloning methodologies, and PCR, helping students prepare for their exam.

Recombinant DNA

DNA that has been formed artificially by combining constituents from different organisms.

Cloning

The process of creating a genetically identical copy of an organism or a gene.

Reproductive Cloning

Making an identical copy of an organism using somatic cells.

Molecular Cloning

The process of making multiple copies of a specific gene.

Genomic Equivalence

The concept that nearly all cells of an organism contain the same genetic material.

Nuclear Transplantation

A technique where the nucleus of an egg cell is replaced with the nucleus from a somatic cell.

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPS)

Ordinary cells that have been reprogrammed to an embryonic stem cell-like state.

Plasmid

A small circular DNA molecule used as a vector in cloning.

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing manipulation in cloning.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A method used to amplify DNA sequences through repeated cycles of denaturation, annealing, and extension.

Gene Cloning

The process of isolating and making copies of a specific gene.

Nucleus

The organelle in eukaryotic cells that contains the cell’s genetic material.

Vectors

DNA molecules used to deliver genetic material into cells.

Recombinant DNA technology

Techniques used to manipulate DNA, such as cloning, to express modified genes.

CRISPR-Cas9

A revolutionary gene-editing technology that allows for precise modifications in DNA.

Gene Expression

The process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products, typically proteins.

Gene of Interest

A specific gene identified for study or manipulation in recombinant DNA technology.

Therapeutic Proteins

Proteins produced to treat medical conditions, often created using recombinant DNA technology.