NCERT Class 12 Biotechnology Biotechnology: Chapter 1 — An Overview of Recombinant DNA Technology
This chapter introduces the fundamental concepts of Recombinant DNA (rDNA) Technology, a cornerstone of modern biotechnology. It explains how scientists can isolate specific genes and combine them with DNA from other sources to create genetically modified organisms. The chapter highlights the pioneering work of Herbert Boyer and the Cohen-Boyer team, who successfully created the first genetically modified organisms by inserting a gene from one bacterial species into a plasmid of another. This breakthrough paved the way for numerous applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry. Understanding rDNA technology is crucial for students pursuing biotechnology, as it forms the basis for genetic engineering and its diverse applications.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 12 |
| Subject | Biotechnology |
| Book | Biotechnology |
| Chapter | Chapter 1 — An Overview of Recombinant DNA Technology |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 1 minute |
| Word count | 170 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the basic principles of Recombinant DNA Technology.
- Recognize the significance of the Cohen-Boyer experiment.
- Identify key contributors to the field of Recombinant DNA Technology.
- Appreciate the historical development of genetic engineering.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Recombinant DNA | DNA formed by combining genetic material from different sources. |
| Plasmid | A small, circular DNA molecule found in bacteria, often used as a vector in genetic engineering. |
| Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) | Organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. |
| Microbial genetics | The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics in microorganisms. |
| Vector | An organism or agent, typically a virus or a plasmid, used to carry genetic material into another organism. |
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Practice questions
- Who is credited with creating the first genetically modified organisms? Answer: The Cohen-Boyer team, including Herbert Boyer.
- What is a plasmid? Answer: A small, circular DNA molecule found in bacteria, often used as a vector.
- What is Recombinant DNA Technology? Answer: A technology that involves combining DNA from different sources to create genetically modified organisms.
Practice MCQs
Q1. Herbert Boyer was a pioneer in which field?
Explanation: Herbert Boyer was a researcher and entrepreneur in Biotechnology, known for his work on recombinant DNA technology.
Q2. The Cohen-Boyer team created the first genetically modified organisms by:
Explanation: They successfully cut open a plasmid, inserted a gene from a different bacterial species, and closed the plasmid, creating a recombinant DNA molecule.
Q3. What is a key component used as a vector in early genetic engineering experiments like the Cohen-Boyer one?
Explanation: Plasmids are small, circular DNA molecules found in bacteria that were instrumental as vectors in early recombinant DNA technology.
Q4. Herbert Boyer co-founded which prominent biotechnology company?
Explanation: Herbert Boyer was a co-founder of Genentech, a leading biotechnology company.
Frequently asked questions
What is Recombinant DNA Technology?
Recombinant DNA Technology is a set of techniques used to manipulate DNA from different sources, allowing scientists to create genetically modified organisms.
Who were Herbert Boyer and Stanley Cohen?
Herbert Boyer and Stanley Cohen were scientists whose collaboration led to the creation of the first genetically modified organisms in 1973.
What is the significance of the Cohen-Boyer experiment?
The Cohen-Boyer experiment demonstrated the feasibility of inserting foreign DNA into a bacterial plasmid, a foundational step in genetic engineering.
What is a plasmid used for in biotechnology?
Plasmids are commonly used as vectors in Recombinant DNA Technology to carry foreign genes into host cells.
When did the first genetically modified organisms emerge?
The first genetically modified organisms were created in 1973 by the Cohen-Boyer team.
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NCERT Class 12 Biotechnology — Biotechnology — Chapter 1 — An Overview of Recombinant DNA Technology. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.