Biotechnology – Class XII Student Support Material (2025–26)

1️⃣ Course Structure

This section explains the overall examination pattern, marks distribution, and course framework.
The subject carries 70 marks for Theory and 30 marks for Practicals, making a total of 100 marks.

The theory portion is divided into:

Unit V: Protein and Gene Manipulation (40 Marks)

Unit VI: Cell Culture and Genetic Manipulation (30 Marks)

It also describes competency-based assessment including knowledge, application, analysis, and case-based questions. The section provides details about practical experiments, project work, evaluation scheme, and prescribed books.

2️⃣ Recombinant DNA Technology

This chapter introduces the concept of combining DNA from different sources to create recombinant DNA (rDNA).

It explains:

Tools of RDT (Restriction enzymes, DNA ligase, alkaline phosphatase)

Vectors (pBR322, pUC19, YAC, BAC, Ti plasmid, etc.)

Host cells (E. coli, yeast, plant and animal cells)

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

DNA sequencing methods (Sanger method and chemical degradation method)

The chapter also includes selection methods like replica plating and blue-white selection. Applications such as DNA fingerprinting and cloning are clearly discussed.

3️⃣ Protein Structure and Engineering

This chapter focuses on the structure–function relationship of proteins.

It explains:

Primary, secondary, and tertiary structure of proteins

Catalytic triad and charge relay system (example: Chymotrypsin)

Molecular diseases like Sickle Cell Anaemia

Protein fingerprinting (Peptide mapping)

2-D Gel Electrophoresis

Mass Spectrometry

The chapter also discusses protein-based products such as insulin (Humulin), vaccines, therapeutic antibodies, and industrial enzymes. It introduces protein engineering and recombinant vaccines.

4️⃣ Genomics, Proteomics and Bioinformatics

This section covers large-scale study of genes and proteins.

It explains:

Genome analysis and gene prediction

SNPs and comparative genomics

Functional genomics

Proteomics

Bioinformatics tools and databases

Students learn how biological data is stored, retrieved, and analyzed using computational tools.

5️⃣ Microbial Cell Culture and Its Applications

This chapter introduces microbial growth and culture techniques.

Topics covered include:

Microbial nutrition

Growth kinetics

Isolation of microbial products

Strain improvement

Industrial applications

It explains how microbes are used in biotechnology for producing enzymes, antibiotics, and other valuable products.

6️⃣ Plant Cell Culture and Applications

This section explains plant tissue culture techniques and their applications.

It includes:

Cell and tissue culture methods

Transgenic plants

Genetic modification

Biosafety concerns

The chapter highlights how plant biotechnology helps improve crop yield, resistance, and nutritional value.

7️⃣ Animal Cell Culture and Applications

This chapter discusses:

Animal cell culture techniques

Stem cell technology

Applications in medicine and research

It explains how animal cells are used in vaccine production, therapeutic protein production, and medical research.

8️⃣ Question Papers

This section provides model question papers including:

Multiple choice questions

Short answer questions

Long answer questions

Case-based questions

Assertion–Reason type questions

It helps students prepare according to the CBSE examination pattern.

9️⃣ Chapter-wise Abbreviations and Contribution of Scientists

This section lists important abbreviations used throughout the subject and highlights the contributions of major scientists in biotechnology.

🔟 e-Learning Resource Table

This section provides digital learning resources, references, and online tools to support students in self-learning.