Restriction Enzymes

Front

What are restriction enzymes?

Back

Restriction enzymes are proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences, known as recognition sites.

Front

Where are restriction enzymes commonly isolated from?

Back

Restriction enzymes are commonly isolated from bacteria.

Front

What is a recognition site for restriction enzymes?

Back

A recognition site is a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA where a restriction enzyme binds and cuts.

Front

What is a palindrome in the context of restriction enzymes?

Back

A palindrome is a sequence of DNA that reads the same forwards and backwards, often the recognition site for restriction enzymes.

Front

What are sticky ends?

Back

Sticky ends are the unpaired nucleotides that are produced when restriction enzymes cut DNA, allowing for the joining of different DNA fragments.

Front

What is a plasmid?

Back

A plasmid is a small, circular piece of DNA that is separate from chromosomal DNA and can replicate independently.

Front

How do restriction enzymes create blunt ends?

Back

Restriction enzymes create blunt ends by cutting straight across the DNA strand, leaving no overhanging nucleotides.

Front

What is the significance of the 5' and 3' ends in DNA?

Back

The 5' and 3' ends refer to the directionality of the DNA strand, which is crucial for processes like replication and transcription.

Front

What is the complementary sequence of 5' GCTTCG 3' when read in the 3'-5' direction?

Back

The complementary sequence is 3' CGAAGC 5'.

Front

What role do restriction enzymes play in genetic engineering?

Back

Restriction enzymes are used in genetic engineering to cut DNA at specific sites, allowing for the insertion or removal of DNA segments.