Working with Genes: Analysing and Manipulating DNA

Abstract

This chapter explores the process of analysing and manipulating deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). A wide range of molecular biology techniques enables DNA to be manipulated and analysed, yielding information about the nature and function of genes. The terms recombinant DNA technology, DNA cloning, and gene cloning all refer to the same process, namely the transfer of a DNA fragment from one organism to a self-replicating genetic element that replicates the fragment in a foreign host cell. Multiple copies of a DNA sequence can be produced by cloning or by using the polymerase chain reaction. Genes are isolated from DNA libraries and gel electrophoresis separates different-sized DNA fragments. Meanwhile, the nucleotide sequence of a segment of DNA is determined by Frederick Sanger’s dideoxy method or next generation sequencing methods. Finally, forward and reverse genetics are different analytical approaches to linking phenotype and genotype.