Molecular cloning refers to a process where the DNA within a cell is reproduced or replicated. Scientists use molecular cloning in several ways, mainly to learn more about proteins within cells and the function of these proteins. In addition, scientists also study what happens when proteins are changed. The results of these studies are often used to fight diseases and for other medical discoveries.
Molecular cloning is a multi-step process which begins with the isolation of the DNA in a cell that contains the gene the scientist wishes to clone. The scientist will select a host and cloning vector for this process. The vector is a miniscule portion of DNA and into this fragment, another strand DNA can be added. Vectors generally derive from plasmids and also often from viruses, and these vectors are known as recombinant DNA.
After isolating, the DNA must be purified and then is fragmented using a restriction enzyme. A restriction enzyme, which is generally produced by a type of bacteria, has the job of cleaving DNA molecules and creating fragments with endings that are cohesive.
Now that these fragments have been created, they are placed into vectors or plasmids. These vectors are the parts of a cell of our chromosomes that are capable of being replicated independently. There is just a single restriction site in the plasmids used in molecular cloning. When this plasmid has split, new ends are created, and these ends are identical to the original fragments of DNA and also are cohesive.
These new fragments now line up perfectly with the plasmid and DNA ligase, which is an enzyme, is added to form a bond. Once that is accomplished, these plasmids will be placed into host cells. After they are placed into the host cells, the plasmid or rather the vector, will multiply and create new, identical copies of the altered DNA and the gene you are trying to replicate. Then the host cell divides and even more copies are made until you have a cluster or clone of the host cells.
This is a highly specialized and complicated process, and many scientists studying molecular biology will have a biotechnology company produce the gene clones and recombinant proteins for them, as well as having the firm perform site-directed mutagenesis. All of these services can help make it easier for scientists to study proteins, peptides and amino acids within our cells.
Armand Zeiders loves writing about biomedical research. For more details about N-terminal sequencing or to find about peptide mapping and synthesis peptides, please visit the PrimmBiotech.com website now.