Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A multiple cloning site (MCS) is a short segment of DNA containing many restriction sites, facilitating the insertion of foreign DNA. It is commonly used in plasmids for gene cloning in biotechnology.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
The MCS allows for the insertion of DNA fragments at specific locations using various restriction enzymes.
It is typically found within a plasmid vector.
Multiple cloning sites are essential tools in genetic engineering and molecular cloning.
The presence of several restriction sites in an MCS increases the versatility of a plasmid vector.
An MCS can be engineered to include unique restriction sites not found elsewhere in the plasmid.
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Related terms
PlasmidVector: A circular DNA molecule used as a tool for introducing foreign DNA into host cells.
RestrictionEnzyme: Proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences, useful for manipulating DNA segments.
GeneCloning: The process of making multiple copies of a particular gene or segment of DNA using molecular biology techniques.