Mention the important properties which a good vector must possess?
The important properties which a good vector must possess are - i) Size - The size of the vector must be small so that it helps them in purification and isolation easily. ii) Origin of Replication – A site where replication starts and is made up of the sequence of base pairs. When the DNA is attached to this sequence then it will result in the replication within its host cell & thus, controls the number of copies of linked DNA. iii) Selectable Marker - The host cells that contain the vector can be selected with the help of a gene called a selectable marker that results in the elimination of the non–transformant. It is used in genetic engineering. iv) Cloning Sites - The site in the vector where the foreign/alien DNA attaches is also called the unique recognition site. A particular restriction enzyme will cut the vector-only at a particular recognition site.
