Question: 172. Which of the following enzyme(s) are NOT essential for gene cloning?
A. Restriction enzymes
B. DNA ligase
C. DNA mutase
D. DNA recombinase
E. DNA polymerase
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :
(1) C and D only
(2) A and B only
(3) D and E only
(4) B and C only
Answer: Option (1)
Explanation:
Gene cloning involves isolation, insertion, and multiplication of a desired DNA fragment.
Restriction enzymes are essential as they cut DNA at specific sequences to obtain the gene of interest.
DNA ligase is essential to join the foreign DNA fragment with the vector DNA.
DNA polymerase is required for replication of recombinant DNA inside the host cell.
DNA mutase is involved in mutation and repair processes and is not required for gene cloning.
DNA recombinase functions in genetic recombination during meiosis and is not essential for artificial gene cloning.
Therefore, the enzymes not essential for gene cloning are DNA mutase and DNA recombinase.
Hence, the correct answer is Option (1).