Question 1

Which of the following best describes recombinant DNA?

Accepted Answer

DNA that is formed by combining two pieces of DNA, often from different species, into a single molecule.

Question 2

What is the primary role of bacterial plasmids in genetic engineering?

Accepted Answer

They replicate separately from the bacterial chromosome and are used to clone genes.

Question 3

Which enzyme is responsible for joining DNA fragments together during the creation of recombinant DNA?

Accepted Answer

DNA ligase

Question 4

EcoRI is a restriction enzyme that recognizes a specific DNA sequence. What is the sequence recognized by EcoRI?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{GAATTC}$$

Question 5

Why is it important to use the same restriction enzyme to cut both the plasmid and the gene of interest?

Accepted Answer

To create complementary sticky ends that allow the gene of interest to be inserted into the plasmid.

Question 6

A scientist wants to produce large quantities of human insulin using bacteria. Which sequence of steps is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Insert the human insulin gene into a bacterial plasmid, transform bacteria, allow bacteria to replicate, and harvest insulin protein.

Question 7

Which of the following is a real-world application of recombinant DNA technology in medicine?

Accepted Answer

Production of synthetic insulin for diabetic patients.

Question 8

What is the function of restriction enzymes in genetic engineering?

Accepted Answer

They cut DNA at specific nucleotide sequences called restriction sites.

Question 9

Why are mammalian cells sometimes used instead of bacteria to produce certain proteins?

Accepted Answer

Some proteins require glycosylation, which only mammalian cells can perform.

Question 10

A patient receives tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) after a heart attack. What is the main purpose of this treatment?

Accepted Answer

To decrease the risk of subsequent heart attacks by dissolving blood clots.

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why insulin produced in cattle and pigs caused side effects in humans?

Accepted Answer

The insulin produced in animals is chemically different from human insulin.

Question 12

What is the role of 'sticky ends' in the process of creating recombinant DNA?

Accepted Answer

They allow complementary base pairing between DNA fragments from different sources.

Question 13

Which of the following diseases can currently be diagnosed using DNA technology?

Accepted Answer

Sickle-cell disease, hemophilia, cystic fibrosis, Huntington's disease

Question 14

A vaccine is created using a genetically engineered protein from a virus. What is the expected immune response in the vaccinated individual?

Accepted Answer

The individual will develop immunity to the protein and will not be affected by the actual virus.

Question 15

Which of the following steps is NOT part of the gene cloning procedure using plasmids?

Accepted Answer

Synthesizing proteins directly from restriction enzymes.

Question 16

If a restriction enzyme recognizes an 8-base pair sequence, what is the probability that this sequence will occur in a random DNA molecule? (Assume equal probability for each base: A, T, G, C)

Accepted Answer

$$\frac{1}{4^8$}$$

Question 17

Which of the following is a reason why gene cloning is important in biotechnology?

Accepted Answer

It allows for the mass production of identical copies of a gene for research and therapeutic use.

Question 18

A scientist uses BamHI to cut a plasmid and a gene of interest. What is the recognition sequence for BamHI?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{GGATCC}$$

Question 19

Which of the following statements about transformation in bacteria is correct?

Accepted Answer

Transformation is the process by which bacteria take up recombinant plasmids from their environment.

Question 20

Why is it necessary to purify the protein product after mass production in bacteria or yeast?

Accepted Answer

To remove bacterial or yeast contaminants and ensure the protein is safe and effective for use.

Genetic Technologies: Recombinant DNA, Plasmids, and Applications

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