Question:

The term "competent" refers to

Updated On: Jul 7, 2022
  • increasing the competition between cells
  • making cells impermeable for $DNA$
  • increasing the efficiency with which $DNA$ enters the bacterium through pores in its cell wall
  • making cells permeable for divalent cations
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Transformation is a process by which a cell takes up naked $DNA$ fragment from the environment, incorporates it into its own chromosomal $DNA$ and finally expresses the trait controlled by the incoming $DNA$. Since $DNA$ is a hydrophilic molecule, it can not pass through membranes, so the bacterial cells must be made competent to take up $DNA$. This is done by treating them with a specific concentration of a divalent cation, such as calcium $(Ca{^2+})$ which increases the efficiency with which $DNA$ enters the bacterium through pores in its cell wall.
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Concepts Used:

Recombinant Technology

Recombinant DNA technology is the process used for producing new genetic combinations by joining different genetic material (DNA) together and inserting them into host organisms from two different species or sources. These new combinations are of value to medicine, science, industry, and agriculture.

Process of Recombinant DNA Technology:

Step 1- Isolation of Genetic Material.

Step 2- Cutting the gene at the recognition sites.

Step 3- Amplifying the gene copies through Polymerase chain reaction ( PCR)

Step 4- Ligation of DNA Molecules.

Step 5- Insertion of Recombinant DNA into Host.

Application of Recombinant DNA Technology:

  • In agricultural fields Recombinant DNA Technology plays a major role. It produces genetically-modified organisms such as flavor save tomatoes, golden rice rich in protein and lot more
  • Recombinant DNA technology is also used to produce Insulin.
  • ELISA is one kind of clinical diagnosis where recombinant DNA technology is used.
  • Recombinant DNA technology prevents hereditary diseases through gene therapy and also detects the presence of HIV in a person.