Question

Which of the following is a vector created by the combination of viral DNA fragments and fragments from a plasmid?

1) Recombinant DNA
2) Restriction enzyme
3) Polymerase chain reaction
4) Gel electrophoresis

Answer 1

Recombinant DNA is the correct vector created by combining viral DNA fragments with plasmid fragments, using the process of molecular cloning involving restriction endonucleases and DNA ligase.

Step-by-step explanation:

The vector created by the combination of viral DNA fragments and fragments from a plasmid is Recombinant DNA. This process involves using restriction endonucleases to cut both the viral DNA and the plasmid DNA at specific sequences, producing fragments with complementary 'sticky' ends. These fragments are then joined or 'ligated' together to form the recombinant DNA. Plasmids serve as vectors in molecular cloning because they can independently replicate within a bacterial host. After ligation, the recombinant plasmid can be introduced into bacteria, where it will replicate and express the inserted gene, resulting in multiple copies of the gene for further research or applications such as creating genetically modified organisms (GMOs).