Genetic Analysis and Cloning Techniques

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to genetic analysis and cloning techniques discussed in the lecture.

Restriction Enzymes

Proteins that cut DNA molecules at specific sequences.

Gel Electrophoresis

A method to separate DNA fragments by size, where smaller fragments migrate faster towards the positive electrode.

Sticky Ends

DNA fragments with overhanging sequences that can easily ligate with other DNA fragments.

Recombinant DNA

DNA molecules formed by combining genetic material from different sources.

Vectors

DNA molecules used to introduce foreign DNA into host cells; can include plasmids and BACs.

Ligation

The process of joining two DNA fragments together using DNA ligase.

Genomic Libraries

Collections of cloned DNA fragments that represent an entire genome.

Transformation

The process of introducing recombinant DNA into host cells.

Blunt Ends

DNA fragments with no overhangs created by certain restriction enzymes.

Selectable Marker

A gene included in a vector that allows for the identification of successfully transformed cells.

Mechanical Shearing

A method that breaks DNA at random locations, as opposed to using restriction enzymes.

DNA Ligase

An enzyme that joins DNA fragments together by forming covalent bonds.

EcoRI

A commonly used restriction enzyme that recognizes the sequence GAATTC.

BAC (Bacterial Artificial Chromosome)

A vector used for cloning DNA fragments that are larger than those usable in plasmids.

YAC (Yeast Artificial Chromosome)

A vector used for cloning very large DNA fragments.

Hybridization

The process in which DNA strands bind to complementary sequences, often used in screening genetic libraries.

Polylinker

A short segment of DNA that contains multiple restriction sites for inserting foreign DNA into a vector.

Antibiotic Resistance Gene

A gene that provides resistance to a specific antibiotic, commonly used as a selectable marker in cloning.