Basis of differentiation 

Recombinant DNA

Recombinant Protein 

Definition 

Is a new DNA molecule created by merging DNA fragments from at least two different sources

Is a protein expressed as a result of the translation of recombinant DNA

Chemical nature 

Is a DNA

Is a protein

Constituent 

Is composed of nucleotides

Is composed of amino acids

Synthesis

Produced through molecular cloning in the laboratory

Produced in the natural host cell

Post-translational modifications

Does not require post-translational modifications

Requires post-translational modifications

Application 

Is used in recombinant DNA technology to synthesize recombinant proteins

Is used in commercial applications to produce enzymes and antibiotics as well as protein-based polymer drugs