cDNA Library
- Pronunciation
- /SEE-dee-nay LIE-brer-ee/
- Category
- Molecular Biology
- Singular
- cDNA Library
- Plural
- cDNA Libraries
Definition
A collection of DNA fragments representing a subset of the genes expressed in a particular cell or tissue.
Etymology
From 'complementary DNA' and 'library'.
Example
A cDNA library from a muscle tissue would contain predominantly genes expressed in muscle cells.
Related Terms
- Gene expression
- Cloning
- Reverse transcription
Usage Notes
cDNA libraries are constructed by reverse transcribing mRNA into complementary DNA (cDNA), which can then be cloned and studied.