Expression vectors are pivotal in genetic engineering, enabling gene insertion and expression in host cells. They consist of promoters, operators, structural genes, terminators, replication origins, and selection markers. These vectors are crucial for therapeutic protein production, gene therapy, and vaccine development, with applications ranging from bacterial to viral systems. Understanding their function and variety is key to advancements in biotechnology.
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Expression vectors are plasmids or viruses designed to carry and express specific genes in host cells for various applications in genetic engineering
Promoter Region
The promoter region is where RNA polymerase binds to initiate gene transcription
Operator Region
The operator region is a control element that regulates transcription through the binding of repressor proteins
Structural Gene
The structural gene encodes the gene of interest
Expression vectors can be plasmids, viral vectors, yeast or bacterial artificial chromosomes, and are chosen based on the host organism, size of DNA fragment, and intended application
Expression vectors are used in gene therapy to introduce functional genes for correcting genetic disorders
Expression vectors are used to generate subunit vaccines or act as the vaccine itself, such as in mRNA vaccines for COVID-19
Expression vectors are used to produce proteins in large quantities by cloning the gene of interest into a host organism and utilizing its cellular machinery for replication and synthesis
Cloning vectors are used to insert and replicate foreign DNA in host cells, while expression vectors are specifically designed to ensure active expression of the inserted DNA
Cloning Vectors
Cloning vectors do not necessarily include control sequences for gene expression, while expression vectors have specific components for transcription and translation
Expression Vectors
Expression vectors are tailored for specific hosts and applications, while cloning vectors are more general in structure and function
00
Expression vectors, often ______ or ______, are engineered to carry and ensure the expression of a gene in the host.
plasmids
viruses
01
These vectors are used for producing ______ proteins, advancing genetic research, and creating ______.
therapeutic
vaccines
02
An expression vector includes a strong ______, a selection ______, and regulatory elements to control gene transcription.
promoter
marker
