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in Genetic Engineering by (45.7k points)

What are cloning vectors? Write a brief account of various cloning vectors used in recombinant rDNA technology?

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After isolation of the desired gene(s), a vector is required which can incorporate this gene and along with it enter in the host cell & replicate it’s DNA in it. This vector is called cloning vector. Plasmid, Bacteriophages and Cosmids are main cloning vectors used in recombinant DNA technology. 

Plasmids: 

  • These are extrachromosomal components in the bacterial cell.
  • The DNA is a circular and double-stranded molecule. 
  • They contain an origin of replication site and can replicate independently of a bacterial chromosome. 
  • They have specific restriction sites where the desired gene can be incorporated. 
  • They have marker sites. 
  • The plasmid may contain 3 to one thousand genes. 

Bacteriophage: 

  • The viruses which infect bacterially and cause lysis of bacterial cell are called bacteriophages. Example: λ (Lambda) phage and M13 phage etc. 
  • Bacteriophages are a better vector as compared to plasmids. 
  • Large DNA segments (24 Kbp) can be cloned in the bacteriophages.
  • Each bacteriophage produces a plaque in the culture. Hence their identification is easy. 

Cosmid:

  • This is a hybrid of plasmid and λ (Lambda) phage.
  • These can replicate in the host cell just like a plasmid.
  • Due to the presence of ‘Cos’ site, these are packed like phage particles.
  • Cosmids can be used to clone the DNA segment of up to 45 Kbp.

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