The term "transfected DNA" refers to genetic material that has been introduced into a living cell using a method called transfection. The word "transfected" is pronounced as /trænsˈfɛktɪd/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the second syllable, "fek". The first syllable, "trans", is pronounced as the symbol /træns/ which represents the "tr" sound followed by the "æ" vowel. The second syllable, "fected", is pronounced with the symbol /ˈfɛktɪd/ which represents the "fek-ted" sound. This spelling follows standard English phonetics rules.
Transfected DNA refers to the process by which foreign genetic material is introduced into a eukaryotic cell. DNA transfection involves the transfer or delivery of exogenous DNA molecules into the cytoplasm or nucleus of cells, allowing them to express or replicate the introduced genetic material. This technique is widely used in molecular biology and genetic research to study gene function, protein expression, and various biological processes.
The process of transfecting DNA typically involves the use of specialized reagents, such as liposomes, electroporation, or viral vectors, which facilitate the integration of foreign DNA into the host cells. These methods allow genetic manipulation and control in vitro, providing insights into the functions of specific genes, their regulatory elements, and the resultant effects on cellular behavior.
Transfected DNA can enable the expression of particular genes of interest within the host cells, allowing researchers to study the effects of overexpression, knockdown, or mutations. Transfection can be performed on a wide range of cell types, including mammalian cells, plant cells, and yeast, offering immense versatility and applicability. By modulating gene expression through transfection, scientists can assess gene functions, protein-protein interactions, signal transduction pathways, and a variety of biological responses.
Overall, transfected DNA plays a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of genetics and molecular biology, providing a powerful tool for manipulating and studying cellular processes with broad implications in fields such as medicine, biotechnology, and agriculture.
The term "transfected DNA" is a combination of two words: "transfection" and "DNA".
1. Transfection:
- The word "transfection" is a neologism formed by combining "trans-" and "infection".
- "Trans-" is a prefix meaning "across" or "on the other side of".
- "Infection" refers to the process of invading and multiplying within the cells of a host organism.
- "Transfection" was coined to describe the artificial introduction of nucleic acids (such as DNA or RNA) into cells, thereby mimicking the process of infection.
2. DNA:
- DNA stands for "Deoxyribonucleic Acid".
- The term DNA was first used in the early 20th century after the discovery and understanding of the molecular structure of DNA by scientists James Watson and Francis Crick.