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Syllabus

Gene Cloning — Syllabus

CBSE · Class 12 · Biotechnology

What Gene Cloning covers in CBSE Class 12 Biotechnology: 4 topics, for the 2026-27 session. Part of the CBSE Class 12 Biotechnology syllabus.

72 questions88 flashcards5 concepts

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A diagram illustrating the concept of insertional inactivation using a chromogenic substrate, where insertion of foreign DNA into a gene (e.g., β-galactosidase) inactivates it, leading to a visible ch
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4 Topics · CBSE Class 12 Biotechnology · 2026-27

Topics in Gene Cloning

1

1. Identification of Candidate Gene

  • A candidate gene is chosen based on its importance in biomedical, economic, or evolutionary studies.
  • Examples of important candidate genes include genes related to diabetes, iron deficiency, salinity tolerance, infection resistance, milk protein, and blood clotting factors.
  • A haploid human genome contains approximately 3.2 billion bp, so finding a short gene sequence is extremely difficult.
2

2. Isolation of Nucleic Acids

  • Isolation of nucleic acids has four main steps: cell disruption, protection from nucleases, separation from other molecules, and precipitation/concentration.
  • Cells can be broken mechanically or enzymatically depending on the source.
  • DNA and RNA are present in very small amounts compared with proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids.
3

3. Enzymes Used in Recombinant DNA Technology

  • Nucleases hydrolyse phosphodiester bonds in nucleic acids.
  • Exonucleases remove nucleotides one at a time from the 3' or 5' end.
  • Endonucleases break internal phosphodiester bonds within DNA or RNA.
4

4. Modes of DNA Transfer

  • Natural DNA transfer in bacteria occurs by transformation, transduction, and conjugation.
  • Transformation is direct uptake of exogenous DNA from the surroundings through the cell membrane and its incorporation into recipient genetic material.
  • Cells that receive foreign DNA by transformation are called transformants.

Key Concepts

Central concept: Gene cloning is the process of using a gene for its product through recombinant DNA technology so that many copies of the gene can be made, studied, and used.

Identification of candidate geneIsolation of nucleic acidsEnzymes used in recombinant DNA technologyRestriction enzymesDNA ligaseDNA polymeraseOther modifying enzymesModes of DNA transfer

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Gene Cloning for CBSE Class 12 Biotechnology?
Key topics in Gene Cloning include Identification of Candidate Gene, Isolation of Nucleic Acids, Enzymes Used in Recombinant DNA Technology, Modes of DNA Transfer. Study these first, then practise questions on each for the CBSE Class 12 board exam.
How should I revise Gene Cloning for the CBSE Class 12 board exam?
Learn the core ideas first, then work through the 72 practice questions on Gene Cloning. Revise definitions regularly and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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