Biotechnology
Quarter 3: Module 3: Recombinant DNA
Name: _______________________________Grade/Section: _____________________Score: ____________
Quiz No. ___
Title: Recombinant DNA
Background Information for the Learners
Recombinant DNA Technology
Recombinant DNA technology is a modern scientific method used to combine DNA from
two different organisms to produce new genetic combinations. The word recombinant
means “recombined,” while DNA carries genetic instructions that determine an organism’s
traits. Through this technology, scientists can insert a specific gene from one organism into
another organism to express a desired trait.
This technology is widely used in medicine, agriculture, and research. For example,
human insulin used by diabetic patients is produced using recombinant DNA technology.
Instead of extracting insulin from animals, scientists insert the human insulin gene into
bacteria, which then produce insulin in large amounts.
Recombinant DNA technology follows a series of carefully controlled steps to ensure
accuracy and safety.
Main Steps in Recombinant DNA Technology
1. Isolation of the Gene of Interest
The desired gene (such as the insulin gene) is identified and removed from the DNA of
a donor organism using special enzymes called restriction enzymes.
2. Cutting of DNA Using Restriction Enzymes
Restriction enzymes act like molecular scissors. They cut both the donor DNA and a
carrier DNA (called a vector, usually a plasmid from bacteria) at specific sites to create
matching ends.
3. Ligation (Joining of DNA Fragments)
The gene of interest is attached to the plasmid using an enzyme called DNA ligase.
This forms recombinant DNA.
4. Insertion into a Host Cell (Transformation)
The recombinant DNA is introduced into a host organism, commonly a bacterium. This
process is called transformation.
5. Selection and Screening
Scientists identify and select the host cells that have successfully taken in the
recombinant DNA.
6. Gene Expression and Production
The host organism multiplies and expresses the inserted gene, producing the desired
protein or trait.
Importance of Recombinant DNA Technology
Produces life-saving medicines (e.g., insulin, vaccines)
Improves crops (pest resistance, higher yield)
Helps in genetic research and biotechnology
Reduces dependence on animal sources for medicines
Assessment
I. Identification
Directions: Identify the term being described. Write your answer on the space provided before the number.
_______________1. The technology that combines DNA from two different organisms.
_______________2. The specific gene that scientists want to transfer.
_______________3. Enzymes that act like molecular scissors to cut DNA.
_______________4. The small circular DNA molecule used as a carrier of genes.
_______________5. The enzyme that joins DNA fragments together.
_______________6. The process of inserting recombinant DNA into a host cell.
_______________7. The organism that receives the recombinant DNA.
_______________8. The final DNA molecule formed after joining the gene and plasmid.
_______________9. The step where cells with successful recombinant DNA are identified.
_______________10. A medicine commonly produced using recombinant DNA technology.
II. Fill in the Blanks
Directions: Fill in the blank with the correct word or phrase.
1. Recombinant DNA technology allows scientists to __________ DNA from different organisms.
2. The desired gene is first __________ from the donor organism.
3. __________ enzymes cut DNA at specific sites.
4. A __________ is commonly used as a vector in bacteria.
5. DNA ligase __________ the gene of interest to the plasmid.
6. The process of inserting recombinant DNA into bacteria is called __________.
7. Bacteria are often used as __________ cells.
8. After transformation, scientists perform __________ to find successful cells.
9. The host cell produces the desired __________ after gene expression.
10. Recombinant DNA technology is widely used in medicine and __________.
III. True or False
Directions: Write True if the statement is correct. If False, underline the word that makes it incorrect and replace it
with the correct one.
1. Recombinant DNA technology involves only one organism.
2. Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences.
3. DNA ligase is used to cut DNA strands.
4. Plasmids are found in bacteria.
5. Transformation refers to the insertion of recombinant DNA into a host cell.
6. Insulin can be produced using recombinant DNA technology.
7. Host cells cannot reproduce once they receive recombinant DNA.
8. Selection and screening help identify successful recombinant cells.
9. Recombinant DNA technology has no use in agriculture.
10. Gene expression allows the host cell to produce useful proteins.