NEETZoologyBiotechnology - Principles and Processes
What is the function of restriction endonucleases?
Options
- ATo form recombinant molecules of DNA
- BTo remove nucleotides from the ends of the DNA
- CTo separate the fragments of DNA
- DTo cut the strand of DNA
Correct answer
D. To cut the strand of DNA
Step-by-step solution
Restriction enzymes cut the strand of DNA a little away from the centre of the palindrome sites, but between the same two bases on the opposite strands. This leaves single stranded portions at the ends. There are overhanging stretches called sticky ends on each strand . These are named so because they form hydrogen bonds with their complementary cut counterparts. This stickiness of the ends facilitates the action of the enzyme DNA ligase