Question

Explain the role of ‘molecular scissors’ in recombinant DNA technology.

Answer 1

1. ‘Molecular scissors’ refer to restriction enzymes also called restriction endonucleases.
2. These enzymes cut DNA molecules at specific nucleotide sequences known as recognition sites.
3. They cut DNA into fragments with identifiable genes, usually producing sticky or blunt ends.
4. Restriction enzymes enable precise cutting of a desired gene from one DNA molecule.
5. They also cut the vector DNA (e.g., plasmids) at specific sites to allow insertion of the foreign gene.
6. These cuts facilitate the joining of the gene of interest with the vector DNA to form recombinant DNA.
7. Molecular scissors are essential tools, as they allow manipulation and recombination of DNA from different sources.
8. Without restriction enzymes, the creation of recombinant DNA molecules and genetic engineering would not be possible.