Describe three ways of synthesising DNA fragments and how they are amplified:

I would ask the tutee when considering an answer to divide the question in two to ensure not one part of it is overlooked but give the answer as a whole.Part 1 Conversion of mRNA into cDNA using reverse transcriptase that synthesises a strand of complimentary bases.
The two strands hybridise forming the double stranded cDNA.Using restriction enzymes that recognise and cleave palindromic sequences of DNA. The restriction enzyme used should cut up and downstream of the gene of interest, leaving an isolated fragment containing said gene of interest.
Creating the gene in a 'gene machine'. This machine synthesises a pre-determined poly-nucleotide sequence (e.g. using LAMP/MDA).
Part 2-DNA fragments can be amplified (produce more copies of) by either in vitro or in vivo methods.
In vivo, means 'in the living', so fragment is amplified in cells. This occurs by inserting the fragment into an expression vector, transforming it into a bacterial cell which upon multiplying produces more copies of the gene.
In vitro means 'in the glass' so is laboratory not cell based. The most common in vitro method for DNA amplification is PCR (the Polymerase Chain Reaction).

BG
Answered by Ben G. Human Biology tutor

3290 Views

See similar Human Biology A Level tutors

Related Human Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the structure of the human heart and how the blood is pumped by the heart.


Why should be we careful with using antibiotics?


How does the theory of evolution due to natural selection explain the extinction of other species?


How are proteins made?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning