Restrictive enzymes

Definition

Restrictive enzymes, also known as restriction enzymes, are proteins that can recognize specific DNA sequences and cut the DNA at those sites. They play a crucial role in genetic engineering by allowing scientists to manipulate and study DNA.

Related terms

Ligase:

Ligase is an enzyme that joins together two separate DNA fragments by forming covalent bonds between their ends.

Plasmid:

A plasmid is a small, circular piece of DNA that is commonly found in bacteria and can be used as a vector for cloning genes.

Recognition sequence: The recognition sequence refers to the specific nucleotide sequence on the DNA where a particular restrictive enzyme binds and cuts.