Researchers are beginning the process of DNA cloning. They have chromosomal DNA, a plasmid cloning vector, restriction enzymes, and DNA ligase. What else is needed in order to perform DNA cloning? Why is this needed?
The researcher needs bacteria. Reproducing bacteria are needed to amplify the copies of the DNA of interest. The recombinant plasmid is inserted into a host bacterial cell. When the cell reproduces, it copies the plasmid along with its chromosome. Each descendant cell receives a plasmid.