Table of Contents
An Introduction; The Different Types of the Cloning Vectors
A cloning vector is DNA molecules used for the cloning of genes. They can be plasmids, viruses, or artificial chromosomes. Cloning vector are more complex than plasmids and can carry larger pieces of DNA. They are often used to clone genes in animal cells. Artificial chromosomes are the most complex cloning vectors.
The Features of the Cloning Vectors
There are many cloning vectors, but all share some common features.
- First, all cloning vectors must be able to replicate in a host cell. This means that the vector must have a sequence recognized by the host cell’s replication machinery and direct the synthesis of new copies of the vector.
- Second, all cloning vectors must have a selection marker. This is a gene that confers resistance to a drug or other agent that kills or inhibits the growth of cells that do not contain the vector. For example, the vector might have a gene for resistance to the antibiotic ampicillin.
Plasmids
- Plasmids are small, circular pieces of DNA found in bacteria cells.
- They are usually not necessary for the survival of the bacteria. Still, they can carry genes that give the bacteria new abilities, such as producing a particular protein or resisting antibiotics.
- One common way is through conjugation, in which a plasmid-carrying bacteria cell transfers its plasmid to a non-plasmid-carrying bacteria cell.
Bacteriophage therapy
- Bacteriophages are viruses that specifically infect bacteria.
- Bacteriophage therapy is the use of bacteriophages to treat bacterial infections.
- Bacteriophages are effective against bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. They are also effective against biofilms, which are bacterial colonies that are resistant to antibiotics.
- Bacteriophages have a few disadvantages. They can only infect specific types of bacteria, so they may not be effective against all types of bacteria. They also have the potential to cause infections.
