Describe the characteristics a cloning vector must possess

  1. Describe the characteristics a cloning vector must possess.
  2. Why DNA cannot pass through the cell membrane?Explain. How is a bacterial cell made’competent’ to take up recombinant DNA from the medium?
  1. should have ori / origin of replication, - Has selectable marker, genes encoding fro an antibiotic resistance / genes encoding for - Has cloning site/recognition site, for the restriction enzyme to recognise.
  2. DNA is a hydrophilic molecule.
    Bacterial cell is made competent by treating with specific concentration of calcium ion /divalent ions, incubating them on ice, heat shock for a short period and placing it back once again.