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Why are selectable markers important in cloning vectors? A) They enhance the replication rate B) They help in identifying and eliminating non-transformants C) They provide energy for replication D) They increase the size of the vector E) They facilitate the ligation of DNA
B) They help in identifying and eliminating non-transformants Explanation: Selectable markers are essential as they allow for the identification of successfully transformed cells while eliminating those that did not take up the vector, ensuring only transformants grow.
What is the directionality of the DNA sequences mentioned in the text? A) 3' to 5' only B) 5' to 3' only C) Both 5' to 3' and 3' to 5' D) 5' to 5' only E) 3' to 3' only
C) Both 5' to 3' and 3' to 5' Explanation: The text states that the sequences read the same in both the 5' to 3' and 3' to 5' directions, indicating that they are palindromic sequences.
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p.9
Cloning Vectors and Their Features

Why are selectable markers important in cloning vectors?
A) They enhance the replication rate
B) They help in identifying and eliminating non-transformants
C) They provide energy for replication
D) They increase the size of the vector
E) They facilitate the ligation of DNA

B) They help in identifying and eliminating non-transformants
Explanation: Selectable markers are essential as they allow for the identification of successfully transformed cells while eliminating those that did not take up the vector, ensuring only transformants grow.

p.7
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the directionality of the DNA sequences mentioned in the text?
A) 3' to 5' only
B) 5' to 3' only
C) Both 5' to 3' and 3' to 5'
D) 5' to 5' only
E) 3' to 3' only

C) Both 5' to 3' and 3' to 5'
Explanation: The text states that the sequences read the same in both the 5' to 3' and 3' to 5' directions, indicating that they are palindromic sequences.

p.10
Recombinant DNA Technology

What color do colonies turn when the plasmid in bacteria does not have an insert?
A) Red
B) Green
C) Yellow
D) Blue
E) White

D) Blue
Explanation: The presence of a chromogenic substrate results in blue-colored colonies if the plasmid does not have an insert, indicating that the β-galactosidase enzyme is active.

p.10
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the process called when a gene gets inactivated due to the insertion of alien DNA?
A) Gene activation
B) Insertional inactivation
C) Gene amplification
D) Gene mutation
E) Gene deletion

B) Insertional inactivation
Explanation: Insertional inactivation occurs when a recombinant DNA is inserted within the coding sequence of an enzyme, such as β-galactosidase, leading to the inactivation of that enzyme.

p.4
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the primary goal of genetic engineering?
A) To increase asexual reproduction
B) To introduce specific genes into host organisms
C) To eliminate all genetic variations
D) To preserve undesirable genes
E) To create hybrid organisms without any modifications

B) To introduce specific genes into host organisms
Explanation: The main objective of genetic engineering is to introduce specific genes into host organisms to change their phenotype, allowing for targeted modifications without the inclusion of undesirable genes.

p.3
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What does the European Federation of Biotechnology (EFB) define biotechnology as?
A) The use of chemicals in agriculture
B) The integration of natural science and organisms for products and services
C) The study of animal behavior
D) The development of artificial intelligence
E) The process of traditional cooking methods

B) The integration of natural science and organisms for products and services
Explanation: The EFB defines biotechnology as the integration of natural science and organisms, cells, and molecular analogues for products and services, encompassing both traditional and modern practices.

p.10
Cloning Vectors and Their Features

Which organism is known for delivering T-DNA to transform plant cells?
A) Escherichia coli
B) Saccharomyces cerevisiae
C) Agrobacterium tumefaciens
D) Bacillus subtilis
E) Pseudomonas aeruginosa

C) Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Explanation: Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a pathogen that can deliver T-DNA to transform normal plant cells into tumor cells, showcasing its ability to transfer genes.

p.4
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What advantage does sexual reproduction have over asexual reproduction?
A) It preserves genetic information
B) It allows for variations and unique genetic combinations
C) It is faster than asexual reproduction
D) It requires less energy
E) It leads to identical offspring

B) It allows for variations and unique genetic combinations
Explanation: Sexual reproduction provides opportunities for variations and the formation of unique genetic combinations, which can be beneficial for the organism and its population, unlike asexual reproduction that preserves existing genetic information.

p.2
History of Biotechnology

What year was Herbert Boyer born?
A) 1945
B) 1936
C) 1950
D) 1960
E) 1970

B) 1936
Explanation: Herbert Boyer was born in 1936, marking the beginning of a significant career in biotechnology.

p.7
Recombinant DNA Technology

What role does DNA ligase play in genetic engineering?
A) It cuts DNA into fragments
B) It synthesizes RNA
C) It facilitates the joining of DNA fragments
D) It degrades unwanted DNA
E) It modifies the genetic code

C) It facilitates the joining of DNA fragments
Explanation: The text mentions that the stickiness of the ends facilitates the action of the enzyme DNA ligase, which is crucial for joining DNA fragments together in recombinant DNA technology.

p.2
History of Biotechnology

Where did Herbert Boyer complete his graduate work?
A) Harvard University
B) Stanford University
C) University of California
D) University of Pittsburgh
E) Yale University

D) University of Pittsburgh
Explanation: Boyer completed his graduate work at the University of Pittsburgh in 1963, which was a crucial step in his academic journey.

p.7
Recombinant DNA Technology

What are 'sticky ends' in the context of DNA?
A) They are the ends of DNA that cannot bond
B) They are overhanging stretches that can form hydrogen bonds
C) They are the ends of DNA that are always blunt
D) They are the ends that are resistant to enzymes
E) They are the ends that are only found in RNA

B) They are overhanging stretches that can form hydrogen bonds
Explanation: Sticky ends are described as overhanging stretches on each strand that can form hydrogen bonds with their complementary cut counterparts, facilitating the joining of DNA fragments.

p.3
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the primary focus of biotechnology as defined in modern contexts?
A) Using traditional farming methods
B) Utilizing genetically modified organisms for large-scale production
C) Creating organic fertilizers
D) Developing renewable energy sources
E) Enhancing natural habitats

B) Utilizing genetically modified organisms for large-scale production
Explanation: Modern biotechnology primarily refers to processes that use genetically modified organisms to produce products and processes beneficial to humans, distinguishing it from traditional biotechnological practices.

p.3
Principles of Genetic Engineering

Which of the following is a core technique that enabled the birth of modern biotechnology?
A) Organic farming
B) Genetic engineering
C) Traditional brewing
D) Soil conservation
E) Crop rotation

B) Genetic engineering
Explanation: Genetic engineering is one of the two core techniques that have enabled the development of modern biotechnology, allowing for the alteration of genetic material (DNA and RNA).

p.12
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the primary purpose of restriction enzyme digestions in molecular biology?
A) To amplify DNA
B) To cut DNA at specific locations
C) To visualize DNA
D) To purify proteins
E) To sequence DNA

B) To cut DNA at specific locations
Explanation: Restriction enzyme digestions are specifically performed to cut DNA at designated sites, allowing for the manipulation and study of specific DNA sequences.

p.13
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the role of primers in the DNA amplification process?
A) To denature the DNA
B) To provide nucleotides
C) To serve as templates
D) To initiate DNA replication
E) To ligate DNA fragments

D) To initiate DNA replication
Explanation: Primers are small chemically synthesized oligonucleotides that are complementary to specific regions of DNA, and they initiate the process of DNA replication by providing a starting point for DNA polymerase.

p.3
Principles of Genetic Engineering

Which of the following is NOT considered a form of biotechnology?
A) Making curd
B) Synthesizing a gene
C) In vitro fertilization
D) Traditional farming
E) Developing a DNA vaccine

D) Traditional farming
Explanation: Traditional farming methods do not involve the use of live organisms or enzymes in the same way that biotechnological processes do, such as making curd, synthesizing genes, or developing DNA vaccines.

p.2
Recombinant DNA Technology

What are plasmids?
A) Large DNA molecules
B) Small ringlets of DNA that replicate independently
C) Proteins produced by bacteria
D) Enzymes that cut DNA
E) RNA molecules

B) Small ringlets of DNA that replicate independently
Explanation: Plasmids are small, circular DNA molecules that float freely in the cytoplasm of certain bacterial cells and replicate independently from chromosomal DNA.

p.10
Methods of DNA Transformation

What is the role of retroviruses in gene delivery to animal cells?
A) They cause diseases only
B) They can transform normal cells into cancerous cells
C) They are used to create vaccines
D) They are not useful in biotechnology
E) They only replicate in bacteria

B) They can transform normal cells into cancerous cells
Explanation: Retroviruses have the ability to transform normal cells into cancerous cells, and this property has been harnessed to deliver desirable genes into animal cells.

p.7
Role of Restriction Enzymes

What do restriction enzymes do to DNA strands?
A) They replicate the DNA
B) They cut the DNA at specific sites
C) They synthesize new DNA
D) They degrade the DNA completely
E) They only modify the DNA without cutting

B) They cut the DNA at specific sites
Explanation: Restriction enzymes are described as cutting the DNA strand a little away from the center of the palindrome sites, which is a key function in genetic engineering.

p.9
Cloning Vectors and Their Features

What is the role of cloning sites in a vector?
A) To provide energy for replication
B) To link alien DNA using restriction enzymes
C) To enhance antibiotic resistance
D) To control the copy number of DNA
E) To prevent transformation

B) To link alien DNA using restriction enzymes
Explanation: Cloning sites are necessary for the insertion of foreign DNA and should have few, preferably single, recognition sites for restriction enzymes to avoid generating multiple fragments that complicate cloning.

p.9
Cloning Vectors and Their Features

What happens to recombinant plasmids in the presence of tetracycline?
A) They grow normally
B) They lose tetracycline resistance
C) They gain ampicillin resistance
D) They replicate faster
E) They cannot be transformed

B) They lose tetracycline resistance
Explanation: Recombinant plasmids lose tetracycline resistance due to the insertion of foreign DNA at the tetracycline resistance gene, allowing for selection based on their growth in the presence of ampicillin but not tetracycline.

p.12
Recombinant DNA Technology

What is the role of ligase in the process of recombinant DNA preparation?
A) To cut DNA
B) To amplify DNA
C) To join DNA fragments
D) To visualize DNA
E) To denature DNA

C) To join DNA fragments
Explanation: Ligase is an enzyme that facilitates the joining of DNA fragments, specifically the 'gene of interest' and the vector DNA, to create recombinant DNA.

p.6
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is a palindromic sequence in DNA?
A) A sequence that is identical on both strands
B) A sequence that reads the same in both directions
C) A sequence that contains only adenine and thymine
D) A sequence that is found only in bacteria
E) A sequence that is longer than 10 base pairs

B) A sequence that reads the same in both directions
Explanation: A palindromic sequence in DNA is defined as a sequence of base pairs that reads the same on both strands when the orientation is considered, similar to word-palindromes.

p.9
Cloning Vectors and Their Features

What is the function of the origin of replication (ori) in a cloning vector?
A) It helps in selecting transformants
B) It controls the copy number of linked DNA
C) It provides antibiotic resistance
D) It facilitates the ligation of foreign DNA
E) It prevents replication of the vector

B) It controls the copy number of linked DNA
Explanation: The origin of replication (ori) is crucial as it determines where replication starts and controls how many copies of the linked DNA can be made within host cells, which is essential for cloning.

p.3
Principles of Genetic Engineering

Which of the following processes is included under biotechnology?
A) Making traditional bread
B) Correcting a defective gene
C) Harvesting crops
D) Fishing techniques
E) Animal husbandry

B) Correcting a defective gene
Explanation: Correcting a defective gene is a modern biotechnological process that falls under the broader definition of biotechnology, which includes various techniques involving genetic manipulation.

p.5
Recombinant DNA Technology

What is the function of DNA ligase in recombinant DNA technology?
A) To cut DNA molecules
B) To replicate DNA
C) To join the ends of cut DNA molecules
D) To introduce DNA into a host
E) To isolate restriction enzymes

C) To join the ends of cut DNA molecules
Explanation: DNA ligase is responsible for linking the cut pieces of DNA with plasmid DNA, creating recombinant DNA.

p.8
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the primary purpose of using restriction endonucleases in recombinant DNA technology?
A) To amplify DNA
B) To cut DNA into fragments
C) To stain DNA
D) To visualize DNA
E) To clone DNA

B) To cut DNA into fragments
Explanation: Restriction endonucleases are enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences, resulting in fragments that can be used to create recombinant DNA molecules when linked with vectors.

p.8
Methods of DNA Transformation

Why do DNA fragments move towards the anode during gel electrophoresis?
A) They are positively charged
B) They are negatively charged
C) They are neutral
D) They are attracted to the gel
E) They are repelled by the gel

B) They are negatively charged
Explanation: DNA fragments are negatively charged due to their phosphate backbone, which causes them to migrate towards the positively charged anode when an electric field is applied.

p.2
Role of Restriction Enzymes

What significant discovery did Boyer make regarding restriction enzymes?
A) They can replicate DNA
B) They can cut DNA strands to create 'sticky ends'
C) They can synthesize proteins
D) They can remove plasmids from cells
E) They can create mutations in DNA

B) They can cut DNA strands to create 'sticky ends'
Explanation: Boyer discovered that certain restriction enzymes from E. coli could cut DNA strands in a way that left 'sticky ends', facilitating the precise joining of DNA fragments.

p.2
Recombinant DNA Technology

What breakthrough did Boyer and Cohen achieve together?
A) They discovered a new type of bacteria
B) They developed a method for DNA sequencing
C) They combined DNA splicing with plasmid manipulation
D) They created a new antibiotic
E) They invented a new type of microscope

C) They combined DNA splicing with plasmid manipulation
Explanation: Boyer and Cohen's collaboration led to the combination of DNA splicing techniques with plasmid manipulation, allowing them to recombine DNA segments and insert them into bacterial cells for protein production.

p.12
Methods of DNA Transformation

Why does DNA move towards the positive electrode during electrophoresis?
A) DNA is positively charged
B) DNA is negatively charged
C) DNA is neutral
D) DNA is attracted to proteins
E) DNA is repelled by the gel

B) DNA is negatively charged
Explanation: DNA molecules are negatively charged, which causes them to migrate towards the positive electrode (anode) during electrophoresis.

p.6
Role of Restriction Enzymes

How do restriction endonucleases identify where to cut DNA?
A) By randomly cutting the DNA
B) By inspecting the length of the DNA sequence
C) By binding to any DNA sequence
D) By recognizing specific palindromic sequences
E) By measuring the temperature of the DNA

D) By recognizing specific palindromic sequences
Explanation: Restriction endonucleases function by inspecting the length of a DNA sequence and recognizing specific palindromic nucleotide sequences, which allows them to bind and cut the DNA at designated points.

p.8
Cloning Vectors and Their Features

What is a key feature of plasmids and bacteriophages as cloning vectors?
A) They cannot replicate in bacterial cells
B) They have low copy numbers
C) They replicate independently of chromosomal DNA
D) They are only found in plants
E) They cannot carry foreign DNA

C) They replicate independently of chromosomal DNA
Explanation: Plasmids and bacteriophages are capable of replicating within bacterial cells independently of the chromosomal DNA, making them effective cloning vectors for foreign DNA.

p.5
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What are restriction enzymes commonly referred to as?
A) Molecular scissors
B) DNA ligases
C) Plasmid vectors
D) DNA polymerases
E) Genetic markers

A) Molecular scissors
Explanation: Restriction enzymes are often called 'molecular scissors' because they cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing for the manipulation of genetic material.

p.12
Methods of DNA Transformation

What technique is used to check the progression of a restriction enzyme digestion?
A) DNA sequencing
B) Southern blotting
C) Agarose gel electrophoresis
D) PCR
E) Western blotting

C) Agarose gel electrophoresis
Explanation: Agarose gel electrophoresis is employed to monitor the progress of restriction enzyme digestions by separating DNA fragments based on size.

p.5
Role of Restriction Enzymes

What is the significance of the recognition sequence in restriction enzymes?
A) It determines the type of plasmid used
B) It indicates the host organism
C) It specifies where the enzyme will cut the DNA
D) It is used for cloning
E) It identifies the antibiotic resistance gene

C) It specifies where the enzyme will cut the DNA
Explanation: The recognition sequence is a specific sequence of nucleotides that restriction enzymes recognize and cut, which is crucial for precise DNA manipulation.

p.12
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Which of the following is NOT a step in the PCR process?
A) Denaturation
B) Primer annealing
C) Extension of primers
D) Ligase addition
E) Amplification

D) Ligase addition
Explanation: Ligase addition is not a step in PCR; the three main steps are denaturation, primer annealing, and extension of primers.

p.13
Applications of Biotechnology in Medicine

What is the ultimate aim of recombinant DNA technology?
A) To create genetically modified organisms
B) To produce a desirable protein
C) To enhance DNA replication
D) To increase genetic diversity
E) To eliminate unwanted genes

B) To produce a desirable protein
Explanation: The primary goal of recombinant DNA technology is to express and produce a specific protein from the inserted foreign DNA, which can have various applications in medicine and industry.

p.11
Recombinant DNA Technology

What is the final step in the recombinant DNA technology process?
A) Isolation of DNA
B) Ligation of DNA fragments
C) Culturing host cells
D) Extraction of the desired product
E) Transformation of host cells

D) Extraction of the desired product
Explanation: The final step in recombinant DNA technology is the extraction of the desired product, which is the goal of the entire process.

p.7
Recombinant DNA Technology

What is the result of cutting DNA with the same restriction enzyme?
A) Different sticky ends
B) Identical DNA fragments with complementary sticky ends
C) Random DNA fragments
D) No fragments are produced
E) Only linear DNA is produced

B) Identical DNA fragments with complementary sticky ends
Explanation: When DNA is cut by the same restriction enzyme, the resultant DNA fragments have the same kind of sticky ends, allowing them to be joined together effectively.

p.6
Role of Restriction Enzymes

What are the two kinds of nucleases mentioned in the text?
A) Exonucleases and endonucleases
B) Ligases and polymerases
C) Helicases and topoisomerases
D) Kinases and phosphatases
E) Transposases and recombinases

A) Exonucleases and endonucleases
Explanation: The text specifies that restriction enzymes belong to a larger class of enzymes called nucleases, which are categorized into exonucleases and endonucleases, each with distinct functions in DNA processing.

p.14
Bioreactors in Biotechnology

What is the role of the stirrer in a bioreactor?
A) To cool the reactor
B) To facilitate even mixing and oxygen availability
C) To measure temperature
D) To control pH levels
E) To add nutrients

B) To facilitate even mixing and oxygen availability
Explanation: The stirrer in a bioreactor ensures even mixing of the contents and maintains oxygen availability throughout the reactor, which is crucial for microbial growth.

p.13
Methods of DNA Transformation

What is a selectable marker in recombinant DNA technology?
A) A gene that enhances growth
B) A gene that provides antibiotic resistance
C) A gene that increases mutation rates
D) A gene that facilitates DNA replication
E) A gene that codes for a fluorescent protein

B) A gene that provides antibiotic resistance
Explanation: A selectable marker, such as an ampicillin resistance gene, allows for the identification of transformed cells that have successfully taken up recombinant DNA by enabling them to survive in the presence of the antibiotic.

p.13
Applications of Biotechnology in Medicine

What is meant by 'recombinant protein'?
A) A protein that is naturally occurring
B) A protein produced by a heterologous host
C) A protein that is mutated
D) A protein that is extracted from plants
E) A protein that is synthesized in vitro

B) A protein produced by a heterologous host
Explanation: A recombinant protein is one that is expressed in a host organism that is different from the organism from which the gene originated, allowing for large-scale production of the desired protein.

p.15
Recombinant DNA Technology

Which of the following is NOT a step in recombinant DNA technology?
A) Isolation of foreign DNA
B) Expression of the foreign gene
C) Purification of the gene product
D) DNA replication in bacteria
E) Marketing of the product

D) DNA replication in bacteria
Explanation: While DNA replication in bacteria is a biological process, it is not a specific step in recombinant DNA technology, which focuses on the manipulation and expression of foreign DNA.

p.9
Cloning Vectors and Their Features

Which of the following is a common selectable marker used in E. coli cloning vectors?
A) Glucose
B) Tetracycline resistance gene
C) DNA polymerase
D) RNA polymerase
E) Ligase

B) Tetracycline resistance gene
Explanation: The tetracycline resistance gene is commonly used as a selectable marker in E. coli cloning vectors, allowing for the identification of transformants by their ability to grow in the presence of antibiotics.

p.5
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the first step in genetically modifying an organism?
A) Maintenance of introduced DNA
B) Introduction of identified DNA into the host
C) Identification of DNA with desirable genes
D) Cloning of the DNA
E) Transfer of DNA to progeny

C) Identification of DNA with desirable genes
Explanation: The first step in genetic modification involves identifying the DNA that contains the desirable genes to be introduced into the host organism.

p.5
Role of Restriction Enzymes

How many restriction enzymes have been isolated from bacteria?
A) Over 100
B) More than 900
C) Exactly 500
D) Around 200
E) Less than 50

B) More than 900
Explanation: More than 900 restriction enzymes have been isolated from over 230 strains of bacteria, each recognizing different sequences, which is essential for genetic engineering.

p.11
Methods of DNA Transformation

What is the purpose of heat shock in the transformation process?
A) To kill the bacteria
B) To facilitate the uptake of recombinant DNA
C) To isolate DNA
D) To fragment DNA
E) To culture host cells

B) To facilitate the uptake of recombinant DNA
Explanation: Heat shock is a critical step that temporarily increases the permeability of the bacterial cell wall, allowing the uptake of recombinant DNA.

p.16
Bioreactors in Biotechnology

What is a bioreactor used for?
A) To store DNA
B) To grow microorganisms or cells under controlled conditions
C) To analyze protein structures
D) To extract DNA
E) To synthesize RNA

B) To grow microorganisms or cells under controlled conditions
Explanation: A bioreactor is a vessel or container used to cultivate microorganisms or cells in a controlled environment, facilitating various biotechnological processes.

p.5
Recombinant DNA Technology

What role do plasmids play in genetic engineering?
A) They act as enzymes
B) They serve as vectors to transfer DNA
C) They are types of restriction enzymes
D) They are used to cut DNA
E) They are a form of antibiotic

B) They serve as vectors to transfer DNA
Explanation: Plasmids are used as vectors to deliver foreign DNA into host organisms, facilitating the process of genetic modification.

p.4
Recombinant DNA Technology

What is the role of the 'origin of replication' in genetic engineering?
A) It prevents DNA replication
B) It initiates the replication of DNA
C) It eliminates unwanted genes
D) It allows for asexual reproduction
E) It creates hybrid organisms

B) It initiates the replication of DNA
Explanation: The 'origin of replication' is a specific DNA sequence responsible for initiating the replication of DNA, which is essential for the multiplication of any alien piece of DNA integrated into a host organism's genome.

p.8
Methods of DNA Transformation

What technique is used to separate DNA fragments after they are cut by restriction enzymes?
A) PCR
B) Gel electrophoresis
C) DNA sequencing
D) Cloning
E) Southern blotting

B) Gel electrophoresis
Explanation: Gel electrophoresis is the technique used to separate DNA fragments based on their size by applying an electric field to a gel matrix, allowing for the resolution of fragments.

p.11
Methods of DNA Transformation

Which method uses high-velocity micro-particles coated with DNA to introduce genetic material into plant cells?
A) Micro-injection
B) Gene gun
C) Heat shock
D) Transformation
E) Electroporation

B) Gene gun
Explanation: The gene gun method, also known as biolistics, involves bombarding plant cells with high-velocity micro-particles coated with DNA to facilitate the introduction of genetic material.

p.16
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

What is PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)?
A) A method for protein synthesis
B) A technique to amplify DNA
C) A process for RNA transcription
D) A method for DNA sequencing
E) A technique for cell division

B) A technique to amplify DNA
Explanation: PCR is a widely used technique in molecular biology that allows for the amplification of specific DNA sequences, making it possible to generate millions of copies of a particular DNA segment.

p.4
Bioreactors in Biotechnology

What is the significance of maintaining a sterile environment in biotechnological processes?
A) To enhance the growth of all microbes
B) To prevent contamination and promote desired cell growth
C) To increase the diversity of organisms
D) To allow for asexual reproduction
E) To facilitate the growth of unwanted organisms

B) To prevent contamination and promote desired cell growth
Explanation: Maintaining a sterile environment is crucial in biotechnological processes to ensure that only the desired microbe or eukaryotic cell grows, which is essential for the production of biotechnological products like antibiotics and vaccines.

p.14
Bioreactors in Biotechnology

What is the primary shape of a stirred-tank reactor?
A) Square
B) Cylindrical or with a curved base
C) Triangular
D) Rectangular
E) Oval

B) Cylindrical or with a curved base
Explanation: Stirred-tank reactors are typically cylindrical or have a curved base to facilitate the mixing of the reactor contents, which is essential for effective operation.

p.14
Bioreactors in Biotechnology

What is one method mentioned for providing oxygen in a bioreactor?
A) Using a cooling system
B) Bubbling air through the reactor
C) Adding oxygen-rich liquids
D) Increasing pressure
E) Using chemical oxygen sources

B) Bubbling air through the reactor
Explanation: An alternative method for providing oxygen in a bioreactor is to bubble air through the reactor, which helps maintain aerobic conditions for microbial growth.

p.8
Methods of DNA Transformation

What is the role of ethidium bromide in gel electrophoresis?
A) To cut DNA
B) To stain DNA for visualization
C) To amplify DNA
D) To separate DNA fragments
E) To extract DNA

B) To stain DNA for visualization
Explanation: Ethidium bromide is a compound used to stain DNA, allowing for the visualization of DNA fragments as bright orange bands when exposed to UV light.

p.15
Recombinant DNA Technology

What key process allows for the alteration of DNA in modern biotechnology?
A) DNA replication
B) Protein synthesis
C) Recombinant DNA technology
D) RNA transcription
E) Chromosomal crossover

C) Recombinant DNA technology
Explanation: Recombinant DNA technology, also known as genetic engineering, is the key process that enables the alteration of DNA, allowing for the creation of genetically modified organisms.

p.16
Role of Restriction Enzymes

What are restriction enzymes?
A) Enzymes that synthesize RNA
B) Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences
C) Enzymes that replicate DNA
D) Enzymes that degrade proteins
E) Enzymes that modify lipids

B) Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences
Explanation: Restriction enzymes are proteins that recognize specific sequences in DNA and cleave the DNA at those sites, playing a crucial role in genetic engineering and molecular cloning.

p.10
Methods of DNA Transformation

Why must bacterial cells be made 'competent' to take up DNA?
A) To increase their growth rate
B) To allow them to metabolize nutrients
C) Because DNA is hydrophilic and cannot pass through cell membranes
D) To enhance their resistance to antibiotics
E) To enable them to produce proteins

C) Because DNA is hydrophilic and cannot pass through cell membranes
Explanation: DNA is a hydrophilic molecule, which means it cannot easily pass through the hydrophobic cell membranes of bacteria, necessitating the process of making them competent.

p.4
Recombinant DNA Technology

Who were the pioneers in constructing the first recombinant DNA molecule?
A) James Watson and Francis Crick
B) Stanley Cohen and Herbert Boyer
C) Gregor Mendel and Charles Darwin
D) Louis Pasteur and Edward Jenner
E) Barbara McClintock and Rosalind Franklin

B) Stanley Cohen and Herbert Boyer
Explanation: Stanley Cohen and Herbert Boyer were the first to construct an artificial recombinant DNA molecule in 1972 by linking a gene encoding antibiotic resistance with a native plasmid of Salmonella typhimurium.

p.14
Downstream Processing and Quality Control

What is the purpose of downstream processing in biotechnology?
A) To initiate the biosynthetic stage
B) To prepare the product for marketing
C) To increase the temperature of the culture
D) To reduce the volume of the culture
E) To enhance the growth of microorganisms

B) To prepare the product for marketing
Explanation: Downstream processing involves a series of processes that the product undergoes after the biosynthetic stage to ensure it is ready for marketing as a finished product.

p.14
Bioreactors in Biotechnology

Which of the following systems is NOT mentioned as part of a bioreactor?
A) Agitator system
B) Oxygen delivery system
C) Nutrient recycling system
D) Temperature control system
E) pH control system

C) Nutrient recycling system
Explanation: The text mentions several systems in a bioreactor, including agitator, oxygen delivery, temperature control, and pH control systems, but does not mention a nutrient recycling system.

p.6
Role of Restriction Enzymes

What is the primary function of exonucleases?
A) To cut DNA at specific positions
B) To remove nucleotides from the ends of DNA
C) To bind to DNA and inspect sequences
D) To form recombinant DNA
E) To replicate DNA

B) To remove nucleotides from the ends of DNA
Explanation: Exonucleases specifically function by removing nucleotides from the ends of the DNA, distinguishing them from endonucleases, which cut at specific positions within the DNA.

p.13
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

What is the significance of using a thermostable DNA polymerase from Thermus aquaticus?
A) It is cheaper to produce
B) It can function at high temperatures
C) It is more efficient than other enzymes
D) It can denature DNA
E) It is easier to purify

B) It can function at high temperatures
Explanation: The thermostable DNA polymerase from Thermus aquaticus remains active during the high-temperature denaturation of double-stranded DNA, which is essential for the PCR process.

p.11
Principles of Genetic Engineering

Which enzyme is used to break open bacterial cells to release DNA?
A) Ribonuclease
B) Protease
C) Lysozyme
D) Cellulase
E) Chitinase

C) Lysozyme
Explanation: Lysozyme is specifically used to break open bacterial cells, allowing the release of DNA along with other macromolecules.

p.11
Recombinant DNA Technology

What is the role of restriction endonucleases in recombinant DNA technology?
A) To ligate DNA fragments
B) To isolate DNA
C) To fragment DNA
D) To culture host cells
E) To extract the desired product

C) To fragment DNA
Explanation: Restriction endonucleases are enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing for the fragmentation of DNA necessary for cloning and recombinant DNA technology.

p.16
Applications of Biotechnology in Medicine

What is chitinase?
A) An enzyme that breaks down proteins
B) An enzyme that degrades chitin
C) A type of DNA polymerase
D) A protein involved in cell signaling
E) A carbohydrate

B) An enzyme that degrades chitin
Explanation: Chitinase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of chitin, a structural polysaccharide found in the cell walls of fungi and the exoskeletons of arthropods.

p.13
Principles of Genetic Engineering

Which enzyme is crucial for extending primers during DNA amplification?
A) RNA polymerase
B) DNA ligase
C) DNA polymerase
D) Reverse transcriptase
E) Restriction enzyme

C) DNA polymerase
Explanation: DNA polymerase is the enzyme that extends the primers using nucleotides and the genomic DNA as a template, playing a vital role in the amplification of DNA segments.

p.11
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the first step in recombinant DNA technology?
A) Ligation of DNA fragments
B) Isolation of the genetic material (DNA)
C) Culturing host cells
D) Fragmentation of DNA
E) Extraction of the desired product

B) Isolation of the genetic material (DNA)
Explanation: The first step in recombinant DNA technology is the isolation of the genetic material (DNA), which is crucial for subsequent processes such as fragmentation and ligation.

p.11
Methods of DNA Transformation

What method involves directly injecting recombinant DNA into the nucleus of an animal cell?
A) Biolistics
B) Heat shock
C) Micro-injection
D) Gene gun
E) Transformation

C) Micro-injection
Explanation: Micro-injection is the method where recombinant DNA is directly injected into the nucleus of an animal cell, allowing for precise introduction of genetic material.

p.15
Downstream Processing and Quality Control

What is downstream processing in biotechnology?
A) The initial stage of DNA extraction
B) The final steps of product formulation and purification
C) The process of gene cloning
D) The analysis of genetic sequences
E) The fermentation process

B) The final steps of product formulation and purification
Explanation: Downstream processing refers to the steps involved in the separation and purification of the product after its production, which is crucial for ensuring product quality and safety.

p.12
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

What does PCR stand for in molecular biology?
A) Polymerase Chain Reaction
B) Protein Chain Reaction
C) Polymerase Copying Reaction
D) Polymerase Chain Replication
E) Protein Chain Replication

A) Polymerase Chain Reaction
Explanation: PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction, a technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences, generating multiple copies of a gene of interest.

p.6
Recombinant DNA Technology

What happens when a restriction endonuclease finds its recognition sequence?
A) It stops functioning
B) It binds to the DNA and cuts both strands
C) It replicates the DNA
D) It removes nucleotides from the ends
E) It changes the DNA sequence

B) It binds to the DNA and cuts both strands
Explanation: Once a restriction endonuclease finds its specific recognition sequence, it binds to the DNA and cuts each of the two strands of the double helix at specific points in their sugar-phosphate backbones.

p.15
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the primary focus of biotechnology?
A) Large scale production and marketing of products using live organisms
B) Study of ancient organisms
C) Development of non-living materials
D) Genetic analysis of fossils
E) None of the above

A) Large scale production and marketing of products using live organisms
Explanation: Biotechnology primarily deals with the large-scale production and marketing of products and processes that utilize live organisms, cells, or enzymes, highlighting its practical applications in various industries.

p.14
Bioreactors in Biotechnology

What is a key advantage of using large-volume bioreactors?
A) They are cheaper to operate
B) They produce larger biomass leading to higher yields
C) They require less maintenance
D) They are easier to clean
E) They can be operated manually

B) They produce larger biomass leading to higher yields
Explanation: Large-volume bioreactors (100-1000 liters) are essential for producing larger biomass, which results in higher yields of desired proteins compared to small volume cultures.

p.15
Principles of Genetic Engineering

Which enzyme is NOT typically used in recombinant DNA technology?
A) Restriction endonucleases
B) DNA ligase
C) DNA polymerase
D) RNA polymerase
E) Plasmid vectors

D) RNA polymerase
Explanation: RNA polymerase is not typically used in recombinant DNA technology; instead, restriction endonucleases and DNA ligase are crucial for isolating and joining DNA fragments.

p.8
Recombinant DNA Technology

What is the process of elution in the context of gel electrophoresis?
A) Cutting DNA fragments
B) Staining DNA
C) Extracting DNA fragments from the gel
D) Amplifying DNA
E) Visualizing DNA

C) Extracting DNA fragments from the gel
Explanation: Elution refers to the process of cutting out and extracting the separated DNA fragments from the agarose gel after electrophoresis, allowing for further use in recombinant DNA construction.

p.15
Bioreactors in Biotechnology

What is the role of bioreactors in biotechnology?
A) To store DNA
B) To facilitate large scale production
C) To analyze proteins
D) To purify enzymes
E) To sequence genomes

B) To facilitate large scale production
Explanation: Bioreactors are essential in biotechnology for facilitating large-scale production of biological products, providing controlled environments for the growth of organisms or cells.

p.15
Downstream Processing and Quality Control

What is a key requirement for the formulation of biotechnological products?
A) High temperature storage
B) Use of preservatives
C) Immediate consumption
D) No testing required
E) Use of animal products

B) Use of preservatives
Explanation: Biotechnological products must be formulated with suitable preservatives to ensure their stability and safety, especially after undergoing thorough clinical trials.

p.16
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is the origin of replication?
A) The site where DNA replication begins
B) The end of a chromosome
C) The location of RNA synthesis
D) The site of protein synthesis
E) The area where ribosomes are formed

A) The site where DNA replication begins
Explanation: The origin of replication is the specific location on a DNA molecule where the process of DNA replication initiates, allowing for the duplication of genetic material.

p.16
Downstream Processing and Quality Control

What does downstream processing refer to?
A) The initial stages of fermentation
B) The purification and recovery of products after fermentation
C) The synthesis of enzymes
D) The analysis of genetic material
E) The growth of microorganisms

B) The purification and recovery of products after fermentation
Explanation: Downstream processing involves the steps taken to purify and recover the desired products from the fermentation process, which is crucial in biotechnology.

p.16
Principles of Genetic Engineering

How can you distinguish between plasmid DNA and chromosomal DNA?
A) Plasmid DNA is linear, while chromosomal DNA is circular
B) Plasmid DNA is smaller and circular, while chromosomal DNA is larger and linear
C) Plasmid DNA is found in the nucleus, while chromosomal DNA is in the cytoplasm
D) Plasmid DNA is only found in prokaryotes
E) Chromosomal DNA is only found in eukaryotes

B) Plasmid DNA is smaller and circular, while chromosomal DNA is larger and linear
Explanation: Plasmid DNA is typically smaller and exists as circular DNA molecules, while chromosomal DNA is larger and usually linear, found in the chromosomes of cells.

p.16
Principles of Genetic Engineering

What is one way to distinguish between RNA and DNA?
A) RNA contains thymine, while DNA contains uracil
B) RNA is double-stranded, while DNA is single-stranded
C) RNA contains ribose, while DNA contains deoxyribose
D) RNA is larger than DNA
E) RNA is found only in the nucleus

C) RNA contains ribose, while DNA contains deoxyribose
Explanation: One key difference between RNA and DNA is that RNA contains ribose sugar, while DNA contains deoxyribose sugar, which is fundamental to their structural differences.

p.16
Role of Restriction Enzymes

What is the difference between exonuclease and endonuclease?
A) Exonuclease cuts DNA at specific sites, while endonuclease removes nucleotides from the ends
B) Exonuclease removes nucleotides from the ends, while endonuclease cuts DNA at specific sites
C) Exonuclease is found in prokaryotes, while endonuclease is found in eukaryotes
D) Exonuclease is used in DNA replication, while endonuclease is used in RNA synthesis
E) There is no difference; they are the same enzyme

B) Exonuclease removes nucleotides from the ends, while endonuclease cuts DNA at specific sites
Explanation: Exonucleases are enzymes that remove nucleotides from the ends of DNA molecules, while endonucleases cut DNA at specific internal sites, which is crucial for various molecular biology applications.

Study Smarter, Not Harder
Study Smarter, Not Harder