Who discovered recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology?

Options

A. Har Gobind Khurana
B. James D Watson
C. Stanley Cohen and Herbert Boyer
D. Walter Sutton and Avery

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Recombinant DNA Technology**: Recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology involves combining DNA from two or more different sources. This process allows scientists to create new genetic combinations that can be used for various applications in biotechnology.

2. **Process of Creating rDNA**: The process starts with the extraction of DNA from two different sources. Specific fragments of DNA are cut from these sources using enzymes known as restriction endonucleases.

3. **Joining DNA Fragments**: After the DNA fragments are cut, they are joined together using another enzyme called ligase. This results in the formation of recombinant DNA.

4. **Identifying the Discoverers**: To answer the question of who discovered rDNA technology, we need to evaluate the options provided:
- **Option 1: Argobind Khurana** - He is known for his work on the role of nucleotides in protein synthesis, not rDNA technology.
- **Option 2: James D. Watson** - He is famous for discovering the structure of DNA, but not for rDNA technology.
- **Option 3: Stanley Cohen and Herbert Boyer** - They were the first scientists to successfully transplant genes from one organism to another, which is a fundamental aspect of recombinant DNA technology.
- **Option 4: Walter Sutton and Avery** - Avery proposed that DNA transmits heredity, and Sutton studied chromosomes, but neither discovered rDNA technology.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the evaluation of the options, the correct answer is **Stanley Cohen and Herbert Boyer**, as they are credited with the discovery of recombinant DNA technology.

**Final Answer**: Stanley Cohen and Herbert Boyer discovered recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology.

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