NEETZoologyBiotechnology - Principles and Processes
What is a vector in molecular biology?
Options
- AA type of bacterium
- BA mechanism to transfer a piece of DNA into a host organism
- CA piece of cut DNA
- DA viral particle
Correct answer
B. A mechanism to transfer a piece of DNA into a host organism
Step-by-step solution
The cutting of DNA at specific locations became possible with the discovery of the so-called ‘molecular scissors’– restriction enzymes. The cut piece of DNA was then linked with the plasmid DNA. These plasmid DNA act as vectors to transfer the piece of DNA attached to it. You probably know that mosquito acts as an insect vector to transfer the malarial parasite into human body. In the same way, a plasmid can be used as vector to deliver an alien piece of DNA into the host organism.