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Types of Restriction Enzymes and Their Functions:

Type I Restriction Enzymes: Function: Type I restriction enzymes recognize specific DNA sequences but cut DNA at random sites far from the recognition sequence. They often require ATP for their function. Example: EcoKI is a Type I restriction enzyme that recognizes the sequence AACNNNNNNGTGC and cuts the DNA at variable distances from the recognition sequence. Technology: Type I restriction enzymes are not commonly used in biotechnology due to their random cutting patterns, but they have been studied for their role in bacterial defense mechanisms. Type II Restriction Enzymes: Function: Type II restriction enzymes recognize specific DNA sequences and cut the DNA at precise positions within or near the recognition sequence. They are commonly used in molecular biology applications. Example: EcoRI is a Type II restriction enzyme that recognizes the sequence GAATTC and...

Restriction enzymes: definition, characteristics and uses.

Definition: Restriction enzymes are like molecular scissors. They are proteins found in bacteria that can cut DNA at specific places. These places are called recognition sites, and they are usually short sequences of DNA that are palindromic, meaning they read the same backwards and forward. Characteristics: Specificity: Each restriction enzyme recognizes and cuts DNA at a specific sequence. Palindromic Recognition Sites: These enzymes usually recognize palindromic sequences in the DNA, such as GAATTC, which reads the same in both directions. Endonucleases: They are classified as endonucleases because they cut the DNA within the molecule, rather than at the ends. Natural Defense Mechanism: In bacteria, restriction enzymes act as a defence mechanism against invading viruses (bacteriophages) by cutting up their DNA. Uses: DNA Cloning: Restriction enzymes are crucial in DNA cloning techniques. They are used to cut both the D...

HISTORY AND SCOPE OF GENETIC ENGINEERING

Introduction : Genetic engineering is a field of science that manipulates the DNA of living organisms to achieve specific outcomes. Its history and scope are fascinating, spanning various breakthroughs and offering a wide range of applications. 1.     Historical Overview: 1970’s – Emergence : Genetic Engineering gained momentum in the 1970s with the discovery of Recombinant DNA Technology, allowing the transfer of genes between different organisms. 1980’s – First genetically engineered product : The first genetically engineered product, human insulin produced by bacteria, was introduced, making a significant milestone. 2. Key Milestones: 1990s - Human Genome Project : The Human Genome Project, mapping the entire human DNA, commenced, providing a comprehensive understanding of our genetic code. 2000s - CRISPR-Cas9 : The revolutionary CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool was developed, offering precise and efficient DNA manipulation. 3...