Genetic Engineering and its Process

DNA cloning and recombination are two major techniques that come under genetic engineering. They have been explained as follows:

DNA Cloning

DNA cloning helps in the production of multiple copies of the target DNA. It utilises the vector, which is a piece of the DNA that can replicate itself. The DNA to be replicated is inserted into the vector , which then replicates to produce multiple copies of the DNA. A suitable vector should possess the following properties:

• It should be small in size, but can carry a large piece of DNA.
• It should possess an Origin of Replication, which allows it to replicate autonomously.
• It should have a restriction site and multiple cloning sites should be available.

Recombinant DNA Technology

Another name of genetic engineering is Recombinant DNA technology. This process allows the joining of two DNA molecules from two different organisms using enzymes. Following are the steps required for recombining DNA:

1. The first step involves the isolation of DNA.
2. Enzyme Restriction endonuclease helps in the fragmentation of DNA.
3. Ligation of the target DNA into the vector.
4. Recombinant DNA vector is transferred into the host.
5. The desired product is extracted.

Biotechnology can be outlined as the vast area of biology that uses the technology and the understanding of living organisms and their building blocks to develop, enhance, and produce applicative products for human well-being. The term ‘ Biotechnology’ was chased in 1919 by an agrarian mastermind Karoly Ereky; hence he’s called the Father of Biotechnology. Karoly Ereky was known as the Father of Biotechnology as he coined the term itself in 1919. Biotechnology results in the production of beneficial products which are altered according to the requirements of an individual. Biotechnology these days has been catering to major sectors of Health, Medicine, and Agriculture.