Video Transcript
Which of the following best describes the process of transformation in cloning DNA sequences? (A) Generating a double-stranded molecule of DNA from a section of mRNA. (B) Selecting and removing a section of DNA using restriction enzymes. (C) Incorporating a genetically modified plasmid into a bacterial cell. (D) Combining sections of DNA from different sources.
DNA cloning is a laboratory process of making many copies of a particular DNA sequence. A very efficient method to make many copies of a DNA sequence consists of using bacterial plasmids. Plasmids are small, circular, double-stranded DNA molecules that are distinct from the chromosomal DNA of a bacterium. Because plasmids have their own origin of replication, they can replicate independently in a large number of times within a bacterium.
Plasmids are a popular choice of vector to clone DNA because they can incorporate DNA sequences from different sources through a process called recombination. Transformation is the process by which bacteria incorporate foreign DNA, for example, a genetically modified plasmid. Once the recombinant plasmid is incorporated inside the bacteria, it can be cloned a large number of times.
Our correct answer is thus (C). Incorporating a genetically modified plasmid into a bacterial cell best describes the process of transformation in cloning DNA sequences.
