Scientists and researchers turn to cloned DNA for various breakthrough studies as they provide multiple genetic copies and DNA segments suitable for wide-scale tests. In vitro mutagenesis is one useful application of cloned DNA, where researchers create a mutation in one segment of the target DNA. The cloned DNA is then transferred into a cell or organism and studied, which provides...
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IPTG: Frequently Asked Questions and Protocols
IPTG is a molecular biology reagent utilized in cloning experiments. This compound is used as a molecular mimic of allolactose, a lactose metabolite that triggers transcription of the lacoperon. Unlike allolactose, the IPTG sulfur (S) atom creates a chemical bond which is non-hydrolyzable by the cell, preventing the cell from "eating up" or degrading the inductant; therefore the IPTG concentration remains constant.