Question

At times it is observed that non-recombinant plasmids are more than that of recombinant plasmids. Choose the correct statement in regard to it.

(a) It makes easier to get the recombinant plasmids from the mixture

(b) The ratio of insert DNA to vector DNA is reduced to get recombinant plasmids

(c) Alkaline phosphatase is used to get recombinant plasmids

(d) Alkaline phosphatase method is less reliable in comparison to the ratio method

I have been asked this question in a national level competition.

My doubt is from Modifications in Cloning Methods, Linkers,  Adaptors and Cassettes topic in division Simple Cloning of Genetic Engineering

Answer 1

The correct option is (c) Alkaline phosphatase is used to get recombinant plasmids

Easy explanation: Often the recombination plasmids are less in number as compared to non-recombination plasmids. This makes it difficult to get the recombination plasmids from the mixture. In order to overcome this, the ratio of insert DNA to vector DNA is increased. Another more reliable method is to use the alkaline phosphatase method.