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The diagram shows how the human insulin gene can be used to genetically modify bacteria - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 6 - 2014 - Paper 1
Question 6
The diagram shows how the human insulin gene can be used to genetically modify bacteria. (a) (i) Name the enzyme used to join the insulin gene to the plasmid. (ii)... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows how the human insulin gene can be used to genetically modify bacteria - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 6 - 2014 - Paper 1
Step 1
Name the enzyme used to join the insulin gene to the plasmid.
Answer
The enzyme used to join the insulin gene to the plasmid is called ligase. Ligase plays a crucial role in the process of molecular cloning by sealing the nicks in the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA, thus facilitating the ligation of the insulin gene into the plasmid.
Step 2
Suggest why the same restriction enzyme was used to cut the human chromosome and the plasmid.
Answer
Using the same restriction enzyme to cut both the human chromosome and the plasmid ensures that the sticky ends of the DNA fragments created are complementary. This compatibility is essential for the successful joining of the insulin gene to the plasmid, promoting efficient ligation and ensuring that the gene can be properly expressed when introduced into the bacterium.