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Tools of Recombinant DNA Technology - Competent Host (For Transformation with Recombinant DNA)

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Estimated time: 7 minutes
CBSE: Class 12

Introduction

  • DNA is hydrophilic, so it cannot pass easily through cell membranes.
  • Therefore, bacterial cells are first made competent, meaning able to take up foreign DNA.
  • In bacteria, this is done using divalent cations such as calcium, followed by ice treatment and a brief heat shock at 42°C to facilitate the entry of recombinant DNA into the cell.
  • Transformation is the introduction of recombinant DNA into a bacterial cell.
CBSE: Class 12

Methods of Introducing Recombinant DNA

Method Type of approach Mainly used in Basic idea
Calcium ion + heat shock Chemical/temperature method Bacteria Cells are made competent so recombinant DNA can enter.
Microinjection Direct physical method Animal cells Recombinant DNA is injected directly into the nucleus.
Biolistics / Gene gun Particle bombardment Plant cells DNA-coated particles are shot into cells.
Disarmed pathogen vectors Biological vector method Host cells, especially plant systems A modified pathogen delivers recombinant DNA into the cell.
CBSE: Class 12

Key Points: Competent Host (For Transformation with Recombinant DNA)

  • DNA is hydrophilic, so it cannot enter cells easily; bacteria are made competent using Ca²⁺ ions.
  • Cells are treated with cold (ice) and heat shock (42°C) to help the uptake of recombinant DNA.
  • Transformation is the process of introducing recombinant DNA into bacterial cells.
  • Microinjection → DNA is directly injected into the nucleus of animal cells.
  • Biolistics (gene gun) and disarmed pathogens are used to transfer DNA into plant and host cells.
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