Biotechnology: Principles and Processes — Part 1: Tools of recombinant DNA technology: visual lesson, ISC Class 12 Biology

Lesson

Biotechnology

Part 1 — the tools used to cut, separate, join and carry genes.

In this lesson you will

Define biotechnology and state its two core principles
Describe isolation of genomic DNA by cell lysis and separation of fragments by gel electrophoresis
Explain the discovery, naming and action of restriction enzymes and the role of ligase
State the features of a good cloning vector and describe pBR322, Ti plasmid, retroviruses, BAC and YAC

Concept

Definition and principles

The European Federation of Biotechnology defines biotechnology as the integration of natural science and organisms, cells, parts thereof and molecular analogues for products and services. Modern biotechnology rests on two core techniques.

Table of the two core principles of biotechnology
Principle	What it does
Genetic engineering	Alters the chemistry of DNA or RNA and introduces it into a host organism, changing its phenotype
Bioprocess engineering	Keeps sterile, contamination-free conditions so that only the desired microbe or cell grows in large quantities to make products such as antibiotics, vaccines and enzymes

Concept

Isolating genomic DNA

DNA lies inside membranes along with proteins, RNA and other molecules. It must be released and purified.

Table of the steps of isolating genomic DNA
Step	Done by
Break the cell (lysis)	Lysozyme for bacteria, cellulase for plant cells, chitinase for fungi
Remove RNA	Ribonuclease
Remove proteins (histones)	Protease
Precipitate DNA	Chilled ethanol: DNA appears as fine threads, removed by spooling

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