Molecular Cloning

Molecular cloning is a powerful method in modern biotechnology used to make multiple copies of a gene, a segment of DNA or the entire genome. The method is based on the natural process of DNA replication, resulting in the generation of a clone or cloned fragment. Clones are then studied in order to determine the function of a gene, combinatorial gene regulation, production of large amounts of proteins or DNA molecules for downstream applications. Molecular cloning has been used to advance research in areas such as genetic engineering, drug development and gene therapy.