Biotechnology

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.