Recombinant DNA technology
Here is how recombinant technology works:
- Recombinant technology begins with the isolation of a gene of interest. The gene is then inserted into a vector and cloned. A vector is a piece of DNA that is capable of independent growth; commonly used vectors are bacterial plasmids and viral
phages. The gene of interest (foreign DNA) is integrated into the plasmid or phage, and this is referred to as recombinant DNA.
- Before introducing the vector containing the foreign DNA into host cells to express the protein, it must be cloned. Cloning is necessary to produce numerous copies of the DNA since the initial supply is inadequate to insert into host cells.
- Once the vector is isolated in large quantities, it can be introduced into the desired host cells such as mammalian, yeast, or special bacterial cells. The host cells will then synthesize the foreign protein from the recombinant DNA. When the cells
are grown in vast quantities, the foreign or recombinant protein can be isolated and purified in large amounts.
Other uses for recombinant DNA
Recombinant DNA technology is not only an important tool in scientific research, but it has also impacted the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and genetic disorders in many areas of medicine. It has enabled many advances, including:
- Isolation of large quantities of pure protein
In addition to the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) used in Follistim® AQ Cartridge and Follistim® AQ Vial, insulin, growth hormone and other proteins are now available as recombinant products. Physicians no longer have to rely on biological products (e.g. urine-derived FSH), that don't possess the same level of purity and consistency of recombinant products to treat their patients.
- Identification of mutations
People may be tested for the presence of mutated proteins that may be associated with breast cancer, retino-blastoma, and neurofibromatosis.
- Diagnosis of affected and carrier states for hereditary diseases
Tests exist to determine if people are carriers of the cystic fibrosis gene, the Huntington’s disease gene, the Tay-Sachs disease gene, or the Duchenne muscular dystrophy gene.
- Transferring of genes from one organism to another
People suffering from cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, vascular disease, and certain cancers may now benefit from the progress made in gene therapy.
- Mapping of human genes on chromosomes
Scientists are able to link mutations and disease states to specific sites on chromosomes.
| 
