Plasmid Regulation and Function

The video tutorial explains gene cloning, likening it to a copying machine where bacteria replicate DNA. It discusses the significance of plasmid copy numbers in genetic engineering, highlighting the balance bacteria maintain to avoid energy burden or plasmid loss. The mechanism of plasmid replication is detailed, focusing on RNA roles and the origin of replication. Finally, it compares high and low copy number plasmids, using pBR322 and pUC19 as examples.

What is the primary purpose of gene cloning?

• To destroy unwanted DNA

• To create identical copies of a gene

• To mutate genes for research

• To sequence unknown DNA

How do plasmids benefit bacteria in genetic engineering?

• By eliminating harmful genes

• By increasing mutation rates

• By providing antibiotic resistance

• By reducing bacterial growth

Why is it important for bacteria to regulate plasmid copy numbers?

• To reduce cell size

• To prevent energy waste

• To increase mutation rates

• To enhance bacterial motility

What could happen if a plasmid is lost from a bacterial cell?

• The cell becomes more motile

• The cell grows faster

• The cell loses antibiotic resistance

• The cell becomes more resistant to antibiotics

What role does RNA II play in plasmid replication?

• It serves as a primer for replication

• It inhibits replication

• It degrades DNA

• It binds to ribosomes

How does RNA I affect plasmid replication?

• It binds to DNA polymerase

• It prevents RNA II from forming a primer

• It degrades RNA II

• It enhances replication

What is the function of the ROP protein in plasmid regulation?

• It inhibits RNA transcription

• It initiates DNA replication

• It facilitates RNA I and RNA II binding

• It degrades RNA I

Which plasmid is known for having a high copy number?

• PUC19

• pUC18

• pET28

• pBR322

What is the typical copy number range for low copy number plasmids?

• 1000 to 2000 copies per cell

• 100 to 200 copies per cell

• 500 to 700 copies per cell

• 10 to 20 copies per cell

Why might a high copy number plasmid be advantageous in genetic engineering?

• It reduces the need for nutrients

• It increases the yield of the gene product

• It decreases the risk of mutations

• It simplifies the cloning process