NCERT Class 12: Chapter 9 – Biotechnology: Principles & Processes
Complete Topic-wise Guide with NEET MCQs | Weightage: 3–4 Questions in NEET UG
Chapter Overview: This chapter deals with the principles of genetic engineering and bioprocess engineering. It covers the tools (enzymes, vectors, hosts) and processes (isolation, cutting, amplification, insertion) used to create genetically modified organisms.
Topic-wise Breakdown with Practice MCQs
BIOTECHNOLOGY: PRINCIPLES AND PROCESSES - Introduction
Overview of Genetic Engineering and Bioprocess Engineering. Introduction to core techniques like plasmid modification and sterile maintenance.
Practice MCQs →TOOLS OF RECOMBINANT DNA TECHNOLOGY - Restriction Enzymes
Deep dive into Molecular Scissors, Restriction Endonucleases (EcoRI, HindII), Palindromic sequences, and sticky ends.
Practice MCQs →TOOLS OF RECOMBINANT DNA TECHNOLOGY - Cloning Vectors
Covers Plasmids and Bacteriophages. Key concepts: ori, Selectable markers (ampicillin resistance), and pBR322.
Practice MCQs →TOOLS OF RECOMBINANT DNA TECHNOLOGY - Competent Host
Methods to make cells competent for Transformation. Covers Heat Shock, Microinjection, Biolistics (Gene Gun), and disarmed vectors.
Practice MCQs →PROCESSES OF rDNA TECHNOLOGY - Isolation of Genetic Material
Techniques for DNA extraction using enzymes like Lysozyme, Chitinase, followed by precipitation with Chilled Ethanol (Spooling).
Practice MCQs →PROCESSES OF rDNA TECHNOLOGY - Cutting of DNA
Separation of DNA fragments using Agarose Gel Electrophoresis. Key terms: Ethidium bromide staining, UV exposure, and Elution.
Practice MCQs →PROCESSES OF rDNA TECHNOLOGY - Amplification (PCR)
The Polymerase Chain Reaction cycle: Denaturation, Annealing, and Extension. Role of thermostable Taq Polymerase.
Practice MCQs →PROCESSES OF rDNA TECHNOLOGY - Insertion into Host
Introduction of ligated DNA into the recipient organism (E. coli, plants, or animals) to create a Recombinant Host.
Practice MCQs →PROCESSES OF rDNA TECHNOLOGY - Obtaining Gene Product
Large-scale production of recombinant proteins using Bioreactors (Stirred-tank and Sparged-tank) and continuous culture systems.
Practice MCQs →PROCESSES OF rDNA TECHNOLOGY - Downstream Processing
The final phase: Separation and Purification of the product, formulation with preservatives, and clinical quality control trials.
Practice MCQs →BIOTECHNOLOGY: PRINCIPLES AND PROCESSES - SUMMARY
Comprehensive recap of recombinant DNA technology, vector types, and processing steps. Perfect for Quick Revision before the exam.
Practice MCQs →🎯 NEET MCQ Focus: Chapter 9
Based on analysis of previous NEET papers, focus on these high-yield patterns:
- Restriction Enzymes: Naming conventions, specific cut sites (e.g., EcoRI), and sticky vs. blunt ends.
- Cloning Vectors: Detailed structure of pBR322 (ampR, tetR, rop) and Insertional Inactivation.
- PCR & Gel Electrophoresis: Temperature steps in PCR and DNA migration direction in Gel Electrophoresis.
- Bioreactors: Diagram-based questions on Stirred-tank vs. Sparged-tank reactors.
Pro Tip for NEET 2026: Master the pBR322 diagram and the steps of PCR. These are the most frequently asked diagram-based questions from this chapter.