GENE CLONING Meaning and
Definition
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Gene cloning refers to the process of creating identical or multiple copies of a specific gene or a piece of DNA. It involves the replication of a desired DNA fragment in a laboratory setting, resulting in a large number of copies of that particular gene. Gene cloning is extensively used in both scientific research and various applications in biotechnology.
This technique typically involves four essential steps: DNA isolation, gene amplification, gene insertion, and gene expression. Firstly, the desired gene is isolated from the source DNA, whether it is derived from a human, animal, plant, or other organisms. Then, through the use of specialized laboratory techniques, known as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the gene of interest is multiplied, producing numerous copies of the gene fragment.
Subsequently, the amplified gene is inserted into another DNA molecule, called a vector, which helps transfer the gene into a host organism. The vector can be a plasmid or a virus, and it possesses the ability to replicate the inserted gene within the host organism's cells. Once the gene has successfully integrated into the host organism's DNA, it can be activated and expressed, leading to the production of the desired protein or any other functional product encoded by the gene.
Gene cloning holds significant importance in various fields, such as genetic engineering, biotechnology, agriculture, medicine, and pharmaceuticals. This technique enables scientists to study the functions, structures, and interactions of genes, as well as to produce large quantities of valuable proteins, hormones, enzymes, or other relevant molecules for various purposes. Ultimately, gene cloning provides an effective means to replicate specific genes and explore the diverse possibilities of genetic manipulation.
Common Misspellings for GENE CLONING
- fene cloning
- vene cloning
- bene cloning
- hene cloning
- yene cloning
- tene cloning
- gwne cloning
- gsne cloning
- gdne cloning
- grne cloning
- g4ne cloning
- g3ne cloning
- gebe cloning
- geme cloning
- geje cloning
- gehe cloning
- genw cloning
- gens cloning
- gend cloning
- genr cloning
Etymology of GENE CLONING
The term "gene cloning" is derived from the combination of two main components: "gene" and "cloning".
1. Gene: The word "gene" was first coined by Danish botanist and geneticist Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909. He used the term to describe the hereditary units responsible for transmitting traits from one generation to another. The word "gene" is derived from the German term "Gen", a shortened form of "Pangen", which was introduced by Austrian monk and botanist Gregor Mendel in the 1860s.
2. Cloning: The term "cloning" originates from the Greek word "klon", meaning "twig" or "branch". It was first used in connection with biology and genetics by American geneticist and Nobel laureate Hans Spemann in the early 20th century.
