Yes, gel electrophoresis is used for the separation of DNA fragments according to their size.
DNA samples are loaded into wells in an agarose gel and subjected to an electric field.
Since DNA is negatively charged due to its phosphate backbone, it moves towards the positive electrode (anode).
Smaller DNA fragments migrate faster and farther, while larger fragments move slower and remain near the wells.
DNA bands are visualized using staining agents like ethidium bromide (EtBr) or SYBR Green under UV light.
DNA fingerprinting
PCR product analysis
Checking restriction enzyme digestion
DNA sequencing
Genetic disorder diagnosis
Thus, gel electrophoresis is a key technique for DNA fragment separation based on size.
Gel electrophoresis is a widely used technique in molecular biology that allows the separation and analysis of DNA, RNA, and proteins based on their size and charge.
In the case of DNA, the technique involves placing the DNA samples onto a gel matrix, typically made of agarose or polyacrylamide, and applying an electric field across the gel.
The DNA fragments migrate through the gel based on their size and charge, with smaller fragments moving faster and traveling farther from the point of origin.
Answer the following questions:
(a) [(i)] Explain how some strains of Bacillus thuringiensis produce proteins that kill certain insects such as lepidopterans but do not kill the Bacillus.
[(ii)] How is the above mechanism exploited for the production of Bt cotton plant by biotechnologists?
(b) [(i)] Explain how the amplification of gene of interest is done using PCR.
[(ii)] State two applications of the desired amplified fragment of DNA.
The basic scheme of the essential steps involved in the process of recombinant DNA technology is summarised below in the form of a flow diagram. Study the given flow diagram and answer the questions that follow.
(a) What is the technical term used for Step 4 in the above process?
(b) Which of the given two combinations of restriction enzyme should be used in Step 1? Justify your answer.
(i) EcoR I to cut the plasmid and Hind III to cut the alien DNA.
(ii) EcoR I to cut both the plasmid and alien DNA.