Name and explain the technique that helps in the separation of DNA fragments for DNA recombinant technology experiments. How can these separated DNA fragments be visualised ?

The technique that helps in the separation of DNA fragments for DNA recombinant technology experiments is called “gel electrophoresis”.

In this method, current is run through a gel containing the DNA fragments. The fragments travel through the gel in different directions or at different speeds, on the basis of the of size or charge, and get separated.

These separated DNA fragments be visualised after staining the DNA with a compound known as ethidium bromide (EtBr) followed by exposure to UV radiation.

Figure 3. EtBr stained DNA fragments as seen under UV light