restriction enzyme

American  

noun

Biochemistry.

1. any of a group of enzymes that catalyze the cleavage of DNA molecules at specific sites: used for gene splicing in recombinant DNA technology and for chromosome mapping.

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restriction enzyme British  

noun

1. any of several enzymes produced by bacteria as a defence against viral infection and commonly used to cut DNA for genetic manipulation or diagnosis

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Etymology

Origin of restriction enzyme

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

restriction enzyme

The technique produced DNA assembly efficiencies two to five times higher than those achieved with conventional restriction enzyme methods.

From Science Daily ● Aug. 19, 2026

The foreign DNA and plasmid are cut with the same restriction enzyme and DNA is inserted within the lacZ gene, whose product metabolizes lactose.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 9, 2022

Another piece of DNA cut on either end by the same restriction enzyme could attach to these sticky ends and be inserted into the gap made by this cut.

From Textbooks ● Apr. 25, 2013

The open-ended nature of the simulation encourages inquiry by enabling users to analyze any DNA sequence, including entire viral or bacterial genomes, with any probe, primer, or restriction enzyme.

From Science Magazine ● Jul. 26, 2012

After the plasmids are separated from the chromosomal DNA in a centrifuge, they are placed in a solution with a chemical catalyst called a restriction enzyme.

From Time Magazine Archive