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Edexcel IGCSE Biology · Spec 5.12

DNA Ligase and Recombinant Plasmids

Covers distinguish restriction enzymes from DNA ligase, Explain how a recombinant plasmid is made and Describe how transformed bacteria are selected.

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DNA Ligase and Recombinant Plasmids

Spec 5.12

What you need to know

  • Distinguish restriction enzymes from DNA ligase
  • Explain how a recombinant plasmid is made
  • Describe how transformed bacteria are selected

Active recall

Quick check

Answer each question before opening the answer.

What is the role of a restriction enzyme?

It cuts DNA at a specific recognition sequence

What is the role of DNA ligase?

It joins DNA fragments by bonding the sugar-phosphate backbone

Why is a marker gene useful?

It identifies or selects cells that received a plasmid

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