The book is in accordance with the recommendations of the ICAR Sixth Deans' Committee and NEP-2020, Fundamentals of Recombinant DNA Technology provides a comprehensive, student-friendly, and outcome-based introduction to the principles and applications of modern molecular biology and genetic engineering. The book is designed to equip undergraduate students with the conceptual understanding and practical competencies required in contemporary agricultural, biological, and biotechnological sciences.

Beginning with the structure and properties of nucleic acids, the text systematically covers restriction enzymes, cloning vectors, recombinant DNA methodologies, gene transfer techniques, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), genomic and cDNA libraries, DNA sequencing, molecular markers, and gene expression systems. Advanced topics such as transgenic technologies, genome editing, biosafety, bioethics, and regulatory frameworks are integrated to connect fundamental concepts with emerging developments in life sciences and agriculture.

The subject matter is presented in a simple and logical manner through illustrations, flowcharts, comparative tables, and practical examples that promote conceptual clarity, analytical thinking, and skill development. Special emphasis has been placed on laboratory techniques, experimental design, interpretation of molecular data, and problem-solving approaches to support experiential learning and competency-based education.

Salient Features

• Fully aligned with the ICAR Sixth Deans' Committee syllabus and course outcomes.
• Outcome-based and competency-driven approach in accordance with NEP-2020.
• Comprehensive coverage of the principles and applications of recombinant DNA technology and genetic engineering.
• Student-friendly presentation through illustrations, flowcharts, diagrams, and summary tables.
• Emphasis on laboratory skills, molecular techniques, and interpretation of experimental results.
• Includes chapter-end review questions, objective questions, and self-assessment exercises.
• Integrates contemporary topics such as genome editing, transgenic technologies, biosafety, and bioethics.
• Useful for classroom teaching, practical training, experiential learning, and competitive examination preparation.

This textbook is primarily intended for undergraduate students of Agriculture, Biotechnology, Horticulture, Forestry, and allied life sciences, and will also serve as a valuable reference for postgraduate students, teachers, researchers, and professionals interested in molecular biology and genetic engineering.

Archana Rani:  Senior Research Fellow (Genetics), Department of Plant Breeding Genetics,, College of Agriculture, Jawahar Lal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyala, Jabalpur-482004, Madhya Pradesh

Yogendra Singh: Senior Assistant Professor (Biotechnology), Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur-482004, Madhya Pradesh

1 Recombinant DNA Technology

2 Restriction Endonucleases: Types and Uses

3 DNA Manipulating Enzymes, DNA Ligases

4 Vectors: Properties of an Ideal Vector, Structure of Vector

5 Cloning Vectors and Expression Vectors

6 Plasmids, Cosmids, Phagemids

7 Bacs, Pacs, Yacs, Transposon Vectors, Shuttle Vectors, Co-Integrating Vectors

8 Competent Cells

9 Gene Isolation and Cloning

10 Genetic Transformation of E. Coli, Gel Electrophoresis

11 Preparation of Probes

12 Southern Blotting; Northern Blotting; Western Blotting

13 PCR and PCR Based Methods in Recombinant DNA Technology