Question:

(a) Why must a cell be made ‘competent’ in biotechnology experiments? How does calcium ion help in doing so?
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Competent cells are a prerequisite for introducing recombinant DNA into host cells, aiding genetic transformation in biotechnology applications.
Updated On: Jan 27, 2025
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Solution and Explanation

Competency is necessary to enable cells to take up foreign DNA during transformation. Calcium ions neutralize the negative charges of DNA and the cell membrane, reducing repulsion between them. This creates favorable conditions for foreign DNA molecules to enter the cell. Competent cells are essential for successful genetic engineering experiments, where foreign DNA is introduced into host cells. This process is widely used in research, industry, and medicine for cloning, genetic modification, and protein production. % Quick tip
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