It is a technique used to transfer genes from one organism to another to get benefit for mankind.
Process: -
i) Individual genes are cut off form one organism and inserted into another organism.
ii) If genes are inserted and accepted properly, they work as if they are still in the organism, from where they are taken from.
iii) Small rings of DNA called plasmids are used as vector to carry the genes.
iv) These plasmids are placed in a solution containing the gene to be transplanted.
v) An enzyme called “Restriction Enzyme” is used to break open the plasmid ring.
vi) The free genes in the solution attach themselves to the open ends of the plasmids so the ring closes again.
vii) The plasmids now include the new gene. These plasmids, which have another gene incorporated in them, are known as recombinant DNA and hence this technique is called recombinant DNA technology.
viii) Bacteria are then exposed to the altered plasmids and many of the bacteria take them in.