What organism is most commonly used in recombinant DNA technology?

Escherichia coli, commonly known as E. coli, is the organism most widely used in recombinant DNA technology due to several key attributes. First, E. coli has a well-characterized genetic system, making it easier for scientists to manipulate its DNA. This bacterium can replicate quickly, allowing for rapid growth and production of large quantities of recombinant proteins in a short time. The simplicity of its unicellular structure also facilitates the introduction of foreign DNA.

Additionally, E. coli is relatively easy to culture and maintain in laboratory settings, which is crucial for experiments involving genetic engineering. It serves as a model organism in molecular biology and has been extensively studied, providing a wealth of information that supports its use in research and biotechnology applications. This extensive understanding of the organism allows for efficient problem-solving and optimization of the recombinant DNA technologies employed.

While other options like Saccharomyces cerevisiae (a type of yeast) can also be used in certain recombinant applications, especially those requiring post-translational modifications, E. coli remains the primary choice among researchers for producing recombinant proteins due to its speed, genetic accessibility, and established protocols. Staphylococcus aureus, a pathogenic bacteria, and yeast extract, an nutrient supplement, do not hold the same advantage