endonuclease

[en-doh-noo-klee-eys, -eyz, -nyoo-]

noun

Biochemistry.

1. any of a group of enzymes that degrade DNA or RNA molecules by breaking linkages within the polynucleotide chains.

endonuclease

/ ˌɛndəʊˈnjuːklɪˌeɪz /

noun

1. an enzyme that is responsible for scission of a nucleic acid chain, the action of which is not confined to the terminal nucleotide Compare exonuclease

Word History and Origins

Origin of endonuclease¹

First recorded in 1960–65; endo- + nuclease

Example Sentences

The paper is titled "Activation of CBASS-Cap5 endonuclease immune effector by cyclic nucleotides."

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But the challenge was how to introduce the endonuclease gene and its associated genetic payload to a spot in the genome where it would work safely without inadvertently affecting other aspects of the animal’s physiology.

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It is the first drug in a new class called endonuclease inhibitors.

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It is an endonuclease inhibitor; this is the first new class of influenza drugs to hit the market in over two decades.

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Researchers need only an enzyme that cuts DNA, such as the endonuclease Cas9, and a guide RNA molecule that directs the enzyme to cut the gene of interest.

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