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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the mechanism by which restriction enzymes function in organic chemistry reactions?
A
Restriction enzymes catalyze the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids.
B
Restriction enzymes are involved in the polymerization of monomers to form polymers.
C
Restriction enzymes cleave DNA at specific nucleotide sequences.
D
Restriction enzymes facilitate the addition of functional groups to hydrocarbons.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of restriction enzymes: Restriction enzymes are proteins that act as molecular scissors, cutting DNA at specific sequences. They are crucial in molecular biology for gene cloning and DNA manipulation.
Identify the specific action of restriction enzymes: These enzymes recognize specific nucleotide sequences in DNA, known as recognition sites, and cleave the DNA at these sites. This process is highly specific and depends on the enzyme's ability to bind to the DNA sequence.
Differentiate from other enzyme functions: Unlike enzymes that catalyze peptide bond formation or polymerization, restriction enzymes do not facilitate these processes. Their primary function is to cleave DNA, not to form bonds or add functional groups.
Consider the specificity of restriction enzymes: Each restriction enzyme has a unique recognition sequence, usually 4-8 base pairs long, which it identifies and cuts. This specificity is crucial for applications in genetic engineering and molecular cloning.
Apply knowledge to the problem: Given the options, the correct description of restriction enzymes is that they cleave DNA at specific nucleotide sequences, which aligns with their biological function and application in organic chemistry reactions.