A LevelBiologyCambridge (CIE)Revision Notes19. Genetic TechnologyPrinciples of Genetic TechnologyRecombinant DNA

Recombinant DNA (Cambridge (CIE) A Level Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: 9700

Phil

Written by: Phil

Reviewed by: Alistair Marjot

Updated on

Recombinant DNA

  • The genetic code is universal, meaning that almost every organism uses the same four nitrogenous bases – A, T, C & G. There are a few exceptions

  • This means that the same codons code for the same amino acids in all living organisms (meaning that genetic information is transferable between species)

  • Thus scientists have been able to artificially change an organism's DNA by combining lengths of nucleotides from different sources (typically the nucleotides are from different species)

  • The altered DNA, with the introduced nucleotides, is called recombinant DNA (rDNA)

  • If an organism contains nucleotide sequences from a different species it is called a transgenic organism

  • Any organism that has introduced genetic material is a genetically modified organism (GMO)

Examiner Tips and Tricks

It is because of the universal genetic code that recombinant DNA can be formed. All forms of life use the same genetic code, which is the strongest piece of evidence for evolution. Remember, the genetic code is the basis for storing instructions that, alongside environmental influences, dictate the behaviour of cells and as a result, the behaviour of whole organisms.

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    Author
    Reviewer
    Phil

    Author: Phil

    Expertise: Biology Content Creator

    Phil has a BSc in Biochemistry from the University of Birmingham, followed by an MBA from Manchester Business School. He has 15 years of teaching and tutoring experience, teaching Biology in schools before becoming director of a growing tuition agency. He has also examined Biology for one of the leading UK exam boards. Phil has a particular passion for empowering students to overcome their fear of numbers in a scientific context.

    Alistair Marjot

    Reviewer: Alistair Marjot

    Expertise: Environmental Systems and Societies & Biology Content Creator

    Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.