PCR vs. Vector Cloning

Similarities

- The goal of PCR and vector cloning is to isolate a fragment DNA containing desired gene to be produced in large quantities.

- The target DNA fragment in both PCR and vector cloning grow at an exponential rate; very fast and efficient.

Differences

PCR

- Amplifies fragments of DNA without using cells.

- DNA fragments are denatured at high temperature, then it is cooled down to allow DNA primers to attach to complementary strands, finally it is heated up again for replication. 

- a special polymerase is used: taq polymerase, which elongates the DNA fragments at high temperature (around 72 C) 

Vector Cloning

- Restriction enzymes are used to cut original gene and plasmid at a specific location (using the same RE for both), containing stick end so they can be combined together and glued using ligase. 

- Bacteria are used as host cells because they contain plasmid that can easily be removed and replaced, and they can multiply at an exponential rate.

- Bacteria must be selected before being grown in culture to ensure the plasmid contains the selected gene.