Molecular Cloning
Technology used to obtain multiple copies of DNA strands by introducing them into host organisms using molecular vectors.
Recombinant DNA
DNA molecules obtained through molecular cloning techniques.
cDNA (complementary DNA)
DNA copy of an mRNA, commonly used in biotechnologies and can be combined into a cDNA library.
Reverse Transcriptase
Enzyme that generates cDNA from an mRNA template by first copying the single-strand mRNA.
Plasmid Vectors
Circular DNA molecules used to introduce cDNA into host cells, containing an origin of replication, genetic marker, and restriction sites.
Restriction Endonucleases
Enzymes that recognize specific DNA sequences and cut the double helix, essential for inserting cDNA into a vector.
DNA Ligase
Enzyme that joins DNA strands by catalyzing the formation of phosphodiester bonds.
Transformation
Process of inserting recombinant DNA into bacterial cells.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Technology used to amplify DNA sequences through cycles of denaturation, annealing, and elongation.
DNA Fingerprinting
Technique to characterize unique genetic profiles based on DNA sequences, using short tandem repeats (STR) and agarose gel electrophoresis.