Question

What does gene cloning mean?

• A. Producing a new genotype.
• B. Producing genetically modified organisms.
• C. Obtaining identical copies of a particular DNA molecule and preserving the genotype.
• D. Replacing the mutated gene with normal genes.

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Gene cloning is also referred to as molecular cloning. It involves the isolation of the desired DNA segment, ligation, transfection (or transformation), and a screening/selection procedure to make multiple copies of a single gene.
Gene cloning also finds its applications in multiple areas like medicine, industry, agriculture, and diagnostics.
In standard molecular cloning experiments, the cloning of any DNA fragment essentially involves seven steps:

1. Choice of host organism and cloning vector.
2. Preparation of vector DNA.
3. Preparation of DNA to be cloned.
4. Creation of recombinant DNA.
5. Introduction of recombinant DNA into the host organism.
6. Selection of organisms containing recombinant DNA.
7. Screening for clones with desired DNA inserts and biological properties.