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This plasmid contains a restriction site and the following three genes: ampR – confers resistance to the antibacterial agent ampicillin gfp – encodes the green fluorescent protein (GFP), which fluoresces under UV light. - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 27 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 27
This plasmid contains a restriction site and the following three genes: ampR – confers resistance to the antibacterial agent ampicillin gfp – encodes the green fluo... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:This plasmid contains a restriction site and the following three genes: ampR – confers resistance to the antibacterial agent ampicillin gfp – encodes the green fluorescent protein (GFP), which fluoresces under UV light. - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 27 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
ampR – confers resistance to the antibacterial agent ampicillin
Answer
The gene ampR is crucial for providing resistance to ampicillin, allowing the bacteria that harbor this plasmid to survive in environments where this antibiotic is present. This characteristic is essential for selection in genetic engineering, as only those bacteria that have successfully taken up the plasmid can grow in ampicillin-containing media.
Step 2
gfp – encodes the green fluorescent protein (GFP), which fluoresces under UV light
Answer
The gfp gene is responsible for the synthesis of the green fluorescent protein, which emits green light under UV illumination. This property is widely utilized in molecular biology as a marker to visualize gene expression and protein localization in living cells.
Step 3
Describe the role of the restriction site
Answer
The restriction site present in the plasmid serves as a location where restriction enzymes can cut the DNA. This allows for the insertion of foreign DNA, which is crucial for cloning purposes. By cutting the plasmid at this site, researchers can introduce other genetic material, facilitating the study and manipulation of different genes within a host organism.