Yeast artificial chromosomes (YACs) are specialized DNA molecules derived from yeast cells that are used in genetic engineering and molecular biology research. YACs are designed to act as artificial chromosomes that can replicate and be stably maintained within yeast cells, allowing the study of large DNA fragments or entire genomes.
YACs are constructed by inserting DNA fragments into a modified yeast chromosome, called a vector. These vectors typically consist of three essential components: the centromere, which ensures proper segregation of the artificial chromosome during cell division; the telomeres, which protect the ends of the artificial chromosome from degradation; and multiple selectable markers, which allow for the identification and selection of yeast cells containing the YAC.
The inserted DNA fragments can range in size from tens of thousands to millions of base pairs, making YACs particularly useful for studying large genes, gene clusters, or even entire genomes. YACs have been used extensively in genomic mapping, which helps identify the location and order of genes on chromosomes, as well as in the construction of genomic libraries, which are collections of DNA fragments from an organism's genome.
Due to their ability to accommodate large DNA fragments, YACs have been instrumental in many genetic studies, including the cloning of disease-associated genes, the production of transgenic organisms, and the understanding of complex genetic disorders. YAC technology has proven to be invaluable in unraveling the complex organization and function of genomes, contributing significantly to advancements in various fields, such as medical research and biotechnology.
