Molecular biology - biotechnology

What is a genome?

Complete set of DNA, including all of its genes

Definition of genetic engineering

Also called genetic modification. Altering DNA

Definition of DNA ligase

Enzyme used to glue different sections of DNA together

Definition of recombinant DNA

DNA made by combining DNA molecules from different organisms

Definition of transform cell

Cell which has assimilated external DNA into its cell

Definition of recombinant DNA

This technology involves the formation of a new DNA by combining the new DNA of two different organisms and its introduction into a new cell

Definition of a vector DNA

DNA containing the desired gene, which needs to be introduced into a new host. The vector DNA carries the passenger DNA to the new host.

What is a restriction enzymes

Enzyme that cuts DNA

Function of a restriction enzyme

Recognise specific sequences in a DNA and cut the DNA. Allows the DNA to be cut in a specific and controlled way.

What happens when DNA are cut by a restriction enzyme

Leaving over hanging “sticky ends” or non over-hanging “blunt ends”. However, complimentary sticky ends can be joined by DNA ligase.

Sticky end restriction

Restriction enzyme cuts the double stranded DNA at its specific recognition site

The cut produces DNA fragments with two sticky ends (ends with nucleotide bases exposed at each end)

Blunt ends

The cut produces 2 pieces of DNA both with blunt ends (ends with no nucleotide bases exposed)