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Multiple Choice
What do biotechnologists use to cut DNA molecules at specific sequences?
A
Helicase
B
DNA ligase
C
RNA polymerase
D
Restriction enzymes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of restriction enzymes: Restriction enzymes are proteins used by biotechnologists to cut DNA molecules at specific sequences. They recognize specific nucleotide sequences and cleave the DNA at these sites.
Learn about the specificity of restriction enzymes: Each restriction enzyme has a unique recognition sequence, typically 4-8 base pairs long, where it will cut the DNA. This specificity allows for precise manipulation of DNA molecules.
Explore the mechanism of action: Restriction enzymes work by making a cut in the sugar-phosphate backbone of the DNA, often resulting in 'sticky ends' or 'blunt ends' depending on the enzyme used. Sticky ends have overhanging single-stranded DNA, which can be useful for ligating DNA fragments together.
Consider applications in biotechnology: Restriction enzymes are crucial in genetic engineering, cloning, and DNA analysis. They allow scientists to cut and paste DNA fragments, facilitating the study and manipulation of genes.
Differentiate from other enzymes: Helicase unwinds DNA strands, DNA ligase joins DNA fragments, and RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA from a DNA template. None of these enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences like restriction enzymes do.