Final answer:
In blue-white screening, transformed bacteria are identified using X-gal. Target gene inserts prevent the synthesis of beta-galactosidase, resulting in white colonies. Antibiotics kill host cells without the plasmid.
Step-by-step explanation:
In blue-white screening, transformed bacteria are identified using a substance called X-gal. X-gal is hydrolyzed by the enzyme beta-galactosidase to produce a blue color. However, if a target gene insert is present in the plasmid, it prevents the synthesis of beta-galactosidase, resulting in white colonies. Additionally, host cells without the plasmid get killed by antibiotics. This process helps researchers identify bacteria that have successfully taken up the plasmid with the target gene insert.