In recombinant DNA technology, a plasmid vector is cleaved by

Options

A. modified DNA ligase
B. a heated alkaline solution
C. the same enzyme that cleaves the donor DNA
D. the different enzyme than that cleaves the donor DNA.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Plasmid Vectors**:
- A plasmid vector is a small, double-stranded, closed circular DNA molecule. It is commonly used in recombinant DNA technology to carry foreign genetic material into another cell.

2. **Definition of a Vector**:
- In the context of genetic engineering, a vector is a vehicle that transports genetic material into a host cell. This is crucial for the replication or expression of the foreign DNA.

3. **Cleavage of the Plasmid Vector**:
- To insert foreign DNA into a plasmid vector, the vector must first be cleaved or cut. This is done using specific enzymes known as restriction enzymes.

4. **Role of Restriction Enzymes**:
- Restriction enzymes are proteins that recognize specific sequences of DNA and cut the DNA at those sites. They are essential for creating 'sticky ends' which facilitate the joining of the foreign DNA with the plasmid vector.

5. **Matching Restriction Enzymes**:
- The plasmid vector is cleaved by the same restriction enzyme that is used to cleave the donor DNA. This ensures that the ends of the plasmid and the donor DNA are compatible for ligation.

6. **Formation of Sticky Ends**:
- The cleavage by restriction enzymes creates 'sticky ends' on both the plasmid vector and the donor DNA. These sticky ends can easily anneal together, allowing for the successful insertion of the foreign DNA into the plasmid.

7. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the answer to the question is that a plasmid vector is cleaved by the same restriction enzyme that cleaves the donor DNA, leading to the creation of sticky ends.

---