Restriction enzymes
Restriction enzymes, also known as restriction endonucleases, are special proteins that act like molecular scissors. They are found in bacteria and serve as a defense mechanism against viruses. These enzymes recognize specific sequences of DNA and cut it at precise locations, allowing scientists to manipulate genetic material. This ability makes restriction enzymes essential tools in biotechnology for cloning, gene editing, and DNA analysis. By cutting DNA at specific sites, researchers can easily remove, add, or modify genes, leading to advances in medicine, agriculture, and genetic research.
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Restriction enzymes, also known as restriction endonucleases, are specialized proteins found in bacteria that act as molecular scissors. They recognize specific DNA sequences and cut the DNA at those sites. This ability to precisely cut DNA is crucial for genetic engineering, allowing scientists to splice together genes from different organisms. Restriction enzymes are used in various applications, including cloning, genetic mapping, and DNA analysis. By manipulating DNA in this way, researchers can study genes and develop new medical treatments, enhance crops, or produce proteins, making them vital tools in biotechnology and molecular biology.