CDNA library

CDNA Library

A cDNA library (pronounced: see-dee-en-ay library) is a collection of cDNA (complementary DNA) molecules, which are synthesized from mRNA (messenger RNA) molecules within a cell. The cDNA library represents a subset of the genomic DNA of an organism, specifically those genes that are being actively expressed in the cell from which the mRNA was derived.

Etymology

The term "cDNA" is an abbreviation for "complementary DNA", which refers to the DNA molecule that is synthesized from an mRNA template in a process catalyzed by the enzyme reverse transcriptase. The term "library" in this context is used metaphorically to refer to a collection or repository of molecules, similar to how a traditional library is a collection of books.

Construction of a cDNA Library

The construction of a cDNA library involves several steps. First, mRNA is isolated from the cell. This mRNA serves as the template for the synthesis of cDNA by the enzyme reverse transcriptase. The cDNA molecules are then inserted into plasmids or other types of vectors, which are used to transform bacteria. Each bacterium takes up a single plasmid and replicates it, creating a colony of bacteria that all contain the same cDNA molecule. The collection of all these colonies constitutes the cDNA library.

Uses of a cDNA Library

A cDNA library can be used for many purposes in molecular biology. For example, it can be used to identify and study the genes that are being expressed in a particular cell type or under certain conditions. It can also be used to produce proteins in bacteria for further study or for use in biotechnology.

Related Terms

• Genomic library
• Plasmid
• Vector (molecular biology)
• Reverse transcriptase
• mRNA
• cDNA

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on CDNA library
• Wikipedia's article - CDNA library

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