Which term describes DNA produced by combining DNA from different sources?

• A. GMO
• B. Recombinant DNA
• C. Plasmid
• D. Vector

Answer: (B)

DNA produced by combining sequences from different sources is called recombinant DNA. This happens when fragments from two or more organisms are joined to form a single molecule that contains genetic material from distinct origins. Enzymes like restriction endonucleases cut the DNA, and DNA ligase seals the pieces together, creating a construct that can be propagated in a host cell. Often researchers insert recombinant DNA into a vector, such as a plasmid, to transfer it into bacteria or other cells for expression. A GMO refers to the organism that carries recombinant DNA, not the DNA molecule itself. A plasmid is a small circular DNA molecule used as a carrier, and a vector is the DNA that carries foreign DNA into a host cell—plasmids are a common type of vector. Thus, recombinant DNA is the correct description of the DNA produced by combining DNA from different sources.