Recombinant DNA
Recombinant DNA technology is a technique that allows scientists to combine genes from different organisms to create something new.
The process often uses a plasmid, a small circular piece of bacterial DNA, as a carrier or vector.
Scientists cut the plasmid open and insert a gene of interest—for example, a human gene. Once joined, the DNA is called recombinant DNA.
The recombinant plasmid is placed back into a bacterium. Each time the bacteria divide, the plasmid is copied too.
As the bacteria multiply, millions of copies of the gene are produced quickly. This process is called gene cloning. If the gene is expressed, the bacteria produce the protein coded by that gene.
One important application is the production of insulin.
By inserting the human insulin gene into bacteria, scientists created tiny “factories” that produce insulin for people with diabetes.
Recombinant DNA technology is also used to make vaccines, improve crop growth, and help scientists study genes more closely.
Recombinant DNA
Recombinant DNA is a method scientists use to combine genetic material from different organisms. This process allows genes from one organism to be inserted into another, creating new traits or abilities. For example, a firefly gene can be placed into a plant to make it glow. This technology has led to human insulin production, pest-resistant crops, and tools for studying diseases. By learning how DNA can be modified, we explore how living things work at the molecular level and how biology can solve real-world problems.
Science and Engineering Practices (SEP): Developing and Using Models
Because DNA is too small to see, scientists build models to understand it. Models show how enzymes cut DNA, how genes are inserted, and how hosts use new instructions. Modeling helps predict results before experiments. You can use hands-on or digital tools to represent these steps.
Activity Ideas:
- DNA Splicing Model: Use beads, pipe cleaners, or paper cutouts to show restriction enzymes cutting DNA and ligase reconnecting fragments.
- Gene Transfer Comic: Draw a comic of inserting a glowing jellyfish gene into bacteria.
- Recombinant Organism Design: Sketch a new organism with a borrowed gene and explain its new ability.
Crosscutting Concept (CCC): Structure and Function
Structure and function are linked in recombinant DNA. The sequence of DNA determines what it does in an organism. Adding a new gene changes the DNA’s structure, which can create a new function.
- Structure: A section of DNA contains the instructions for making a glowing protein.
Function: When this DNA is inserted into bacteria, the bacteria now glow in the dark. - Structure: An insulin gene is added to bacterial DNA using special enzymes.
Function: The bacteria now produce insulin, which is harvested for medicine.
Recombinant DNA has transformed science, medicine, and farming. By understanding and designing genes, scientists create solutions such as new medicines, healthier crops, and better ways to study diseases.
Recombinant DNA technology is a technique that allows scientists to combine genes from different organisms to create something new.
The process often uses a plasmid, a small circular piece of bacterial DNA, as a carrier or vector.
Scientists cut the plasmid open and insert a gene of interest—for example, a human gene. Once joined, the DNA is called recombinant DNA.
The recombinant plasmid is placed back into a bacterium. Each time the bacteria divide, the plasmid is copied too.
As the bacteria multiply, millions of copies of the gene are produced quickly. This process is called gene cloning. If the gene is expressed, the bacteria produce the protein coded by that gene.
One important application is the production of insulin.
By inserting the human insulin gene into bacteria, scientists created tiny “factories” that produce insulin for people with diabetes.
Recombinant DNA technology is also used to make vaccines, improve crop growth, and help scientists study genes more closely.
Recombinant DNA technology is a technique that allows scientists to combine genes from different organisms to create something new.
The process often uses a plasmid, a small circular piece of bacterial DNA, as a carrier or vector.
Scientists cut the plasmid open and insert a gene of interest—for example, a human gene. Once joined, the DNA is called recombinant DNA.
The recombinant plasmid is placed back into a bacterium. Each time the bacteria divide, the plasmid is copied too.
As the bacteria multiply, millions of copies of the gene are produced quickly. This process is called gene cloning. If the gene is expressed, the bacteria produce the protein coded by that gene.
One important application is the production of insulin.
By inserting the human insulin gene into bacteria, scientists created tiny “factories” that produce insulin for people with diabetes.
Recombinant DNA technology is also used to make vaccines, improve crop growth, and help scientists study genes more closely.
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