BSC 2010 Chapter 13: Chapter 13 Biotechnology
Document Summary
Concept 13. 1 recombinant dna can be made in the laboratory. Biotechnology began with the use of organisms with genetic capabilities that occur in nature. It has become possible to genetically modify organisms with genes from other, distantly related organisms, to create new combinations of genes that would not otherwise occur in the same cell. Uses recombinant dna (a single dna molecule containing dna sequences from two or more sources) Three key tools were and still are widely used: Restriction enzymes for cutting dna into pieces (fragments) that can be manipulated. Gel electrophoresis for the analysis and purification of dna fragments. Dna ligase for joining dna fragments together in novel combinations. Some bacteria defend themselves against invasions by producing restriction enzymes which cut double stranded dna molecules into smaller, noninfectious fragments. These enzymes break the bonds of the dna backbone between the 3" hydroxyl of one nucleotide and the 5" phosphate group of the next nucleotide.