Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary goal of recombinant DNA technology in biotechnology?

Accepted Answer

To intentionally modify genomes for practical purposes such as eliminating undesirable traits, combining beneficial traits, and synthesizing products humans need.

Question 2

A scientist wants to amplify a specific DNA sequence from a viral genome to diagnose an infection. Which technique should they use, and what is the basic formula for the number of DNA molecules after $$n$$ cycles?

Accepted Answer

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR); $$2^n$$

Question 3

Why was the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) not practical before the discovery of hyperthermophilic bacteria?

Accepted Answer

DNA polymerase from mesophilic organisms would denature at the high temperatures required for denaturation.

Question 4

Which property of restriction enzymes makes them essential for recombinant DNA technology?

Accepted Answer

They cut DNA molecules only at specific palindromic sequences called restriction sites.

Question 5

A researcher uses EcoRI to cut a plasmid and a gene of interest. What type of ends are produced, and why is this important for cloning?

Accepted Answer

Sticky ends; they allow complementary base pairing and facilitate ligation of the gene into the plasmid.

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a property of a good vector for gene delivery?

Accepted Answer

Is large and difficult to manipulate in the lab.

Question 7

During gel electrophoresis, what determines how far a DNA fragment migrates through the agarose gel?

Accepted Answer

The fragment's size, shape, and electrical charge.

Question 8

Which artificial method is used to insert DNA into cells by creating temporary pores in the cell membrane using an electrical field?

Accepted Answer

Electroporation

Question 9

A scientist wants to fuse two plant cells to create a hybrid with desirable traits. Which technique should they use?

Accepted Answer

Protoplast fusion

Question 10

Which equation best represents the exponential amplification of DNA during PCR, starting with a single DNA molecule after $$n$$ cycles?

Accepted Answer

$$2^n$$

Question 11

What is the main purpose of using synthetic nucleic acids in recombinant DNA technology?

Accepted Answer

To synthesize DNA and RNA probes, PCR primers, and genes for specific proteins.

Question 12

Which of the following is a natural method for inserting DNA into cells?

Accepted Answer

Transformation

Question 13

A researcher is mapping the location of genes on a bacterial chromosome. Which application of recombinant DNA technology are they using?

Accepted Answer

Genetic mapping

Question 14

Which tool is used to cut DNA at specific sites, and what is the typical sequence characteristic of these sites?

Accepted Answer

Restriction enzyme; palindromic sequence

Question 15

A patient is suspected of having a genetic disorder. Which recombinant DNA technology technique would be most useful for diagnosing the disorder by detecting specific DNA sequences?

Accepted Answer

DNA microarray

Question 16

Which enzyme is used to join DNA fragments together after restriction enzyme digestion?

Accepted Answer

Ligase

Question 17

In the context of recombinant DNA technology, what is the function of a genetic marker in a vector?

Accepted Answer

To allow scientists to identify cells that have successfully taken up the vector.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the process of next-generation DNA sequencing (NGS)?

Accepted Answer

It uses fluorescently labeled nucleotides to record the sequence of DNA as it is synthesized.

Question 19

A scientist wants to locate a specific gene within a genome. Which tool should they use, and what is the principle behind it?

Accepted Answer

DNA probe; it binds to complementary DNA sequences to identify the gene of interest.

Question 20

Which of the following is a plausible reason for using mutagens in recombinant DNA technology?

Accepted Answer

To create changes in microbial genomes and select for cells with beneficial characteristics.

Recombinant DNA Technology: Tools, Techniques, and Applications

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