Difference between rDNA and cDNA - Testbook.com

Last Updated on Jul 31, 2023
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rDNA and cDNA are both modified forms of DNA that play crucial roles in advanced DNA technologies. cDNA, also known as complementary DNA, is produced through the reverse transcription of mRNAs. On the other hand, rDNA, or recombinant DNA, is created by combining at least two DNA fragments from different sources.

To understand the differences between rDNA and cDNA, let's delve into the details below.

rDNA
cDNA
Definition
rDNA, or recombinant DNA, is a product of merging two DNA fragments from distinct sources. cDNA, or complementary DNA, is generated by the reverse transcription of mRNAs.
Enzymes Required
The creation of rDNA necessitates the use of restriction enzymes and ligases. The formation of cDNA requires reverse transcriptases.
Synthesis
rDNA synthesis is an artificial process that occurs outside the cell. cDNA synthesis can occur naturally within the cell or be artificially induced.
Applications
rDNA is instrumental in producing recombinant proteins, which find extensive use in various pharmaceutical products. cDNA finds applications in gene cloning, cDNA library creation, PCR, and RT-PCR.

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Frequently Asked Questions

rDNA is artificially synthesised by joining two or more DNA fragments from different sources, whereas DNA is a naturally occurring molecule in cells.

cDNA is used instead of mRNA because it does not contain introns or any genomic DNA that might hinder the technology being performed.

gDNA or genomic DNA consists of introns and exons, whereas cDNA or complementary DNA consists only of exons.

Yes, the cDNA is complementary to the mRNA strand.

Yes, you can run cDNA on a gel, but it tends to form smears rather than clear bands.

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