Recombinant DNA technology is a process used to combine DNA from two different sources to create new genetic combinations that do not naturally occur.
In simple words, it allows scientists to cut a gene from one organism and insert it into another, giving the new organism a desired trait — such as producing insulin, resisting disease, or growing faster.
Steps of Recombinant DNA Technology (Simplified):
- Identify and isolate the desired gene
Scientists find the gene that codes for a useful trait (for example, the human insulin gene). - Cut the DNA with restriction enzymes
Special enzymes called restriction enzymes act like scissors to cut the DNA at specific sequences. - Insert the gene into a vector
A vector (like a plasmid — a small circular piece of DNA found in bacteria) is used to carry the desired gene.
The plasmid is also cut with the same enzyme so the gene fits perfectly into it. - Join the DNA pieces
The desired gene and the plasmid are joined together using an enzyme called DNA ligase.
This forms recombinant DNA — a new piece of DNA containing genes from different sources. - Transfer recombinant DNA into a host cell
The plasmid carrying the new gene is inserted into a host organism (usually a bacterium). - Expression and cloning
The host cell reads the new gene and produces the desired protein (for example, insulin).
As the cell divides, it makes many copies of the recombinant DNA — this is called gene cloning.
Applications:
- Medicine: Production of human insulin, vaccines, and hormones.
- Agriculture: Creation of pest-resistant or high-yield crops (GMOs).
- Research: Studying gene functions and protein synthesis.
- Industry: Producing enzymes used in food and detergent manufacturing.
In short:
Recombinant DNA technology is a method to join genes from different organisms to produce new genetic combinations.
It’s one of the key tools of genetic engineering and has transformed medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.