Ans. Basic Steps in Genetic Engineering
1. Isolation of the gene of interest
In the first step, the genetic engineer identifies the gene of interest in a donor organism. Special enzymes, called restriction endonucleases, are used to cut the identified gene from the total DNA of donor organism.
2. Insertion of the gene into a vector
A vector is selected for the transfer of the isolated gene of interest to the host cell. The vector may be a plasmid (the extra-chromosomal DNA present in many bacteria) or a bacteriophage. The gene of interest is attached with the vector DNA by using endonuclease (breaking enzymes) and ligase (joining enzymes). The vector DNA and the attached gene of interest are collectively called recombinant DNA.
3. Transfer of recombinant DMA into host organism
Recombinant DMA is transferred to the target host. In this way, host organism is transformed into a genetipally modified organism (GMO).
4. Growth of the GMO
The GMO are provided suitable culture medium for growth to give as much copies of the gene of interest as needed.
5. Expression of the gene
The GMO contains the gene of interest and manufactures the desired product, which is isolated from culture medium. .