Answer: In recombinant methods, the term "vector" refers to a plasmid or other agent used to transfer DNA into a living cell. The vector acts as a carrier for the foreign DNA and allows for its replication and expression within the host organism.
Step-by-step explanation:
In recombinant methods, the term "vector" refers to a plasmid or other agent used to transfer DNA into a living cell.
Here's an explanation to support the answer:
1) Recombinant methods: Recombinant DNA technology involves the manipulation and combination of DNA molecules from different sources to create new genetic combinations. It allows scientists to introduce specific genes or DNA sequences into organisms, enabling them to study gene function, produce useful proteins, or modify genetic traits.
2) Vector: In recombinant methods, a vector is a DNA molecule that is used to transfer foreign DNA into a living cell. The vector acts as a carrier or vehicle to deliver the desired DNA sequence into the target organism's cells. The most commonly used vectors are plasmids, which are small, circular DNA molecules that can replicate independently within a host cell. Other types of vectors include viruses, cosmids, and artificial chromosomes.
3) Function of a vector: The vector typically contains multiple components, including a selectable marker (e.g., antibiotic resistance gene) that allows for the identification and selection of cells that have taken up the vector. It also contains specific DNA sequences called cloning sites or multiple cloning sites (MCS), where the foreign DNA can be inserted. Once the vector enters the host cell, it can replicate along with the host DNA, allowing the foreign DNA to be reproduced and expressed.
4) Other options: The other options provided (the enzyme that cuts DNA into restriction fragments, an RFLP marker, a DNA probe used to locate a particular gene, and the sticky ends of a DNA fragment) do not accurately represent the meaning of the term "vector" in the context of recombinant methods. While restriction enzymes, RFLP markers, DNA probes, and sticky ends are important components or techniques used in recombinant methods, they do not specifically refer to the vector itself.