Recombinant expression uses DNA transcription to create proteins from an artificial gene. This process is used in genetic research, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. The gene can be inserted into an organism’s genetic code, and if successful, the body will produce the intended protein.
Recombinant expression is a process that allows an artificial gene, also known as a recombinant gene, to express the trait encoded within it. This is done through DNA transcription, which converts DNA into RNA that tells a cell to start making proteins, with the proteins themselves expressing the desired trait. In recombinant expression, the gene may be artificial, but the expression process is based on nature.
A recombinant gene is produced by artificial means. People make recombinant genes for a variety of reasons. Sometimes such genes are created for genetic research, allowing scientists to learn more about specific traits. They can also be used to enhance a plant or animal by creating desired traits or eliminating unwanted ones. An example of a recombinant gene might be a gene that confers herbicide resistance on a crop so that herbicides can be used around that crop to kill weeds.
In the process of gene expression, the body reads its genetic code, using it as a manual for building proteins. This occurs as an organism develops, as seen when a developing fetus uses the DNA of a single fused cell to build an entire body. It also happens every day when new cells develop and older cells die. In humans, for example, skin cells are constantly growing as older skin cells shed, and this occurs as a result of gene expression, with proteins acting as a building crew to build a new cell according to DNA specifications.
In the case of recombinant expression, the body’s natural process for reading DNA and converting it into proteins is used on a recombinant gene that has been inserted into an organism’s genetic code. If the gene has been developed and inserted correctly, the body will be able to read it and produce the intended protein. If the gene has an error or problem, natural mechanisms are activated to prevent rogue gene expression, preventing recombinant expression from occurring.
Recombinant technology is used in agriculture, pharmaceutical product development and genetic research. Once researchers create a successful recombinant gene, they can insert that gene into organisms they are studying or developing so that the gene is expressed. With the use of DNA cloning, they can make multiple copies of the gene which can be inserted into numerous organisms. One area where recombinant expression is used extensively is the production of new pharmaceuticals, with organisms such as bacteria being genetically modified to produce the necessary chemical compounds.
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