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 : 

The correct answer is C and D only

Explanation:

• Gene cloning is a method used to create identical copies of a specific gene or DNA segment. It involves isolating a desired gene, inserting it into a vector, and introducing it into a host organism to amplify and express the gene.
• Enzymes play a crucial role in the various steps of gene cloning. However, not all enzymes are essential for the process.
• The most commonly used enzymes in gene cloning are restriction enzymes, DNA ligase, and DNA polymerase.
  • Restriction enzymes: These are essential enzymes for gene cloning. They recognize specific DNA sequences and cut the DNA at or near these sites, producing fragments that can be inserted into vectors.
  • DNA ligase: This enzyme is critical for gene cloning. It joins the DNA fragments (e.g., the insert DNA and the vector) by forming phosphodiester bonds, making a stable recombinant DNA molecule.
  • DNA polymerase: DNA polymerase is sometimes used in gene cloning for amplifying DNA through techniques like PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) or for filling in DNA overhangs after restriction digestion.
• DNA mutase: This enzyme is not essential for gene cloning. DNA mutase is involved in introducing mutations into DNA, which is not a requirement for cloning
• DNA recombinase: While recombinases facilitate site-specific recombination and have applications in advanced genetic engineering (e.g., CRISPR or recombineering), they are not essential for basic gene cloning processes.