This document discusses several key aspects of recombinant DNA technology: 1) It asks how it is possible to insert a human gene into bacterial DNA. 2) Plasmids are small circular DNA molecules that can replicate independently of bacterial chromosomes. 3) Basic tools for recombinant DNA include restriction enzymes and DNA ligase. Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific sites while ligase joins DNA molecules. 4) "Sticky ends" are complementary single-stranded overhangs that allow for joining of DNA fragments cut by the same restriction enzyme.