The process represented in the diagram is genetic engineering, involving the insertion of a human gene into bacterial DNA, followed by cell division. Hence the correct option is 4.
The diagram illustrates the process of genetic engineering, a sophisticated biotechnological technique that involves the manipulation of an organism's genetic material to introduce specific genes from one organism into the genome of another. In this context, the gene for a human hormone is extracted and then inserted into bacterial DNA, forming a recombinant DNA molecule.
The insertion is facilitated by cutting the bacterial DNA at specific sites using restriction enzymes. Following the integration of the human gene, the modified DNA is introduced into a bacterial cell, which serves as a host. Through the process of cell division, the host cell replicates and produces additional cells containing the recombinant DNA. This enables the bacterial cells to express the human gene and produce the desired human hormone.
Genetic engineering holds significant applications in various fields, including medicine and biotechnology, allowing the production of valuable proteins and substances that may have therapeutic or industrial uses. The diagram encapsulates the key steps in this transformative process, highlighting its potential to harness genetic information for the benefit of scientific and medical advancements. Hence the correct option is 4.