In recombinant DNA technology, what is the role of restriction enzymes?
Practice Questions
Q1
In recombinant DNA technology, what is the role of restriction enzymes?
To amplify DNA
To cut DNA at specific sequences
To ligate DNA fragments
To transcribe RNA
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In recombinant DNA technology, what is the role of restriction enzymes?
Correct Answer: Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences.
Step 1: Understand that DNA is made up of sequences of nucleotides.
Step 2: Learn that restriction enzymes are special proteins that can cut DNA at specific locations.
Step 3: Know that these specific locations are called 'restriction sites' and are usually short sequences of nucleotides.
Step 4: Realize that when the restriction enzyme cuts the DNA, it creates 'sticky ends' or 'blunt ends' that can be used to join other pieces of DNA.
Step 5: Understand that scientists use these cuts to insert new DNA fragments into vectors, which are DNA molecules used to carry foreign DNA into a host cell.
Step 6: Conclude that the role of restriction enzymes is crucial for creating recombinant DNA, which is DNA that has been artificially made by combining DNA from different sources.
