Question 1

What is recombinant DNA technology?

Accepted Answer

Recombinant DNA technology refers to the process of artificially combining genetic material from different sources, often different species, and introducing the resulting hybrid DNA into a host organism. This technique allows scientists to alter genetic traits, produce valuable proteins like insulin

Question 2

Define restriction endonucleases.

Accepted Answer

Restriction endonucleases are specialized enzymes that function as molecular scissors, cutting DNA molecules at specific, predictable recognition sequences known as restriction sites. These enzymes are naturally found in bacteria as a defense mechanism against bacteriophage infections. In biotechnol

Question 3

What are palindromic nucleotide sequences?

Accepted Answer

Palindromic nucleotide sequences are specific stretches of DNA where the reading direction of base pairs is identical on both strands when read in the 5' to 3' direction. These symmetrical sequences serve as specific recognition and cleavage sites for various restriction endonucleases. For instance,

Question 4

What is plasmid DNA?

Accepted Answer

Plasmid DNA refers to extra-chromosomal, circular, double-stranded DNA molecules that naturally occur in many bacteria and some yeasts. These molecules replicate independently of the chromosomal DNA and frequently carry advantageous genes, such as antibiotic resistance markers. In recombinant DNA te

Question 5

Explain the principle of Agarose Gel Electrophoresis.

Accepted Answer

Agarose gel electrophoresis is a fundamental laboratory technique used to separate DNA fragments based on their size and molecular weight. Because nucleic acids possess a negative electrical charge due to their phosphate backbone, they migrate towards the positive anode when an electric field is app

Biotechnology: Principles and Processes