What is molecular cloning?

Molecular cloning is a set of experimental methods in molecular biology that are used to assemble recombinant DNA molecules and to direct their replication within host organisms. It involves isolating a specific DNA sequence (the 'insert') and inserting it into a vector (e.g., a plasmid or virus) which can then be introduced into a host cell. The host cell replicates the vector, thus amplifying the insert. Molecular cloning is widely used for gene expression, protein production, and genetic engineering.