ISOLATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF PLASMID DNA FROM RHIZOBIUM ON THE ROOT NODULES OF PHASEOLUS VULGARIS (COMMON BEAN)

ABSTRACT

Plasmids are small, autonomously replicating extrachromosomal DNA molecules that play a significant role in genetic manipulation and biotechnology. In this project, the focused was on the isolation and characterization of plasmid DNA from Rhizobium, a group of nitrogen-fixing bacteria that form symbiotic relationships with leguminous plants. The extraction of plasmid DNA was carried out using a well-established method based on alkaline lysis, followed by purification using phenol/chloroform techniques. First, Rhizobium strains were cultivated in suitable growth media, and plasmid DNA was isolated from the bacterial cells. The extracted plasmid DNA was subjected to electrophoresis to confirm its presence and to determine its size. The study also investigated the potential genetic traits carried by the isolated plasmids. Antibiotic resistance genes were of particular interest due to their significance in biotechnology and agriculture. The isolation and characterization of plasmid DNA from Rhizobium provide valuable insights into the genetic makeup and versatility of these nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Understanding the diversity and properties of plasmids in Rhizobium contributes to broader applications in biotechnology, including genetic engineering, gene transfer, and gene regulation studies. Moreover, the findings from this project offer potential avenues for harnessing the symbiotic relationship between Rhizobium and leguminous plants for sustainable agriculture and environmental sustainability.