Which of the following describes the basic steps of the recombinant DNA technology process?

The choice to identify the basic steps of recombinant DNA technology is accurate because this process involves specific, well-defined stages that are fundamental to the technology. Firstly, isolating DNA refers to obtaining the desired gene or DNA fragment that one wishes to manipulate. Following this, cutting DNA is performed using restriction enzymes which create specific breaks in the DNA, allowing for precise manipulation.

Next, ligating involves the joining together of the DNA fragments, often by using another enzyme called DNA ligase, to create a recombinant DNA molecule. This recombinant DNA can then be introduced into host cells during a process known as transformation, allowing the host cells to take up and express the new genetic material. Finally, screening is essential to identify which of these cells successfully incorporated the recombinant DNA, often using techniques like antibiotic resistance or fluorescent markers.

This systematic approach encapsulates the essence of recombinant DNA technology, focusing on gene manipulation and expression within host organisms, which distinguishes it from other processes such as protein extraction or vaccine development. Thus, the outlined steps in this choice accurately represent the fundamental methodologies used in recombinant DNA technology.