Gel electrophoresis
Steps in creating recombinant DNA:
-identify the gene -isolate the target gene with restriction enzyme -insert into a plasmid that has also been cut with the same restriction enzyme -insert the plasmid into bacteria
The smaller the DNA fragment is...
...The faster and farther it moves.
What is the result?
A pattern of bands based on the fragment size.
What is the enzyme that copies DNA?
DNA polymerase
What is a plasmid and what does it act as?
Small circular pieces used to introduce new genes into bacteria and they acts as the vehicle or vector, for new genes to enter the bacteria.
What happens after the DNA has been cut by the restriction enzymes?
The fragments are put into wells in the gel and then an electric voltage is moved across the gel. Within an hour or two, the fragments all separate, each appearing as a band on the gel.
What happens to the negatively charged molecules when the electric voltage is applied to the gel?
They move toward the positive end of the gel.
What is gel electrophoresis used for?
To separate and analyze the differently sized fragments.
When can scientists 'read' the DNA sequence directly from the gel?
When gel electrophoresis is used to separate the fragments.
When can gel electrophoresis be used?
When the DNA has been cut by the restriction enzyme.
