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Mysterious puzzle of genes: How does recombinant DNA combine genes from different species?
Genes are the foundation of life, and recombinant DNA technology is like a bridge that breaks down boundaries, allowing genes between different species to be rearranged and combined through scientific means. In today's biotechnology, recombinant DNA not only presents unlimited possibilities, but also triggers many ethical and safety discussions. How this technology will impact our lives makes us wonder about the science behind it and its future development.
Recombinant DNA is a DNA molecule formed by combining gene fragments from different sources. Its chemical structure is shared by all organisms and differs only in the nucleotide sequence.
The beginning of recombinant DNA technology can be traced back to the 1970s, when scientists used various methods to recombine genes. The formation of recombinant DNA requires a cloning vector, which is a DNA molecule that can replicate inside biological cells. These vectors are usually derived from plasmids or viruses and are able to carry foreign DNA and express it in host cells.
The process of generating recombinant DNA molecules can be roughly divided into several steps: selecting a host organism, preparing vector DNA, preparing DNA to be cloned, creating recombinant DNA, introducing recombinant DNA into the host organism, and screening organisms containing recombinant DNA. And screen out clones with the desired DNA insert sequence and biological properties.
In most cases, organisms containing recombinant DNA exhibit normal phenotypes, and the presence of the recombinant sequence can only be confirmed by molecular detection methods. The appearance, behavior, and metabolism of these organisms generally do not change.
With the development of recombinant DNA technology, scientists have found various practical applications. For example, the development of recombinant human insulin has enabled patients with type 1 diabetes to no longer rely on animal-derived insulin. In addition, the emergence of recombinant HGH (human growth hormone) and recombinant blood coagulation factor VIII has greatly improved the quality of life of patients with related diseases.
Application scope of recombinant DNA technology
Recombinant DNA technology plays an important role in various fields of biotechnology, medicine and research. Today, products based on this technology can be found in almost every pharmacy, medical institution, and biological laboratory. From genetically modified crops in agriculture to gene therapy in biomedicine, the applications of recombinant DNA are numerous.
For example, genetically modified crops, such as herbicide-tolerant corn and cotton, have become mainstream agricultural production in many countries.
However, with the in-depth research and application of recombinant DNA technology, related ethical and safety issues have also surfaced. Many scientists warned of these potential risks at the Asilomar Conference in 1975. The possible impact of genetically modified organisms entering the natural environment and food chain remains a hotly debated topic.
Will recombinant DNA technology lead us to a healthier future, or are there potential risks brewing in the dark?
