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restriction enzyme
An enzyme that recognizes a specific sequence of double-stranded DNA and cuts the DNA at that site. Restriction enzymes, also called restriction endonucleases, are often referred to as molecular scissors and are a vital tool in genetic engineering. Over 3,000 restriction enzymes have been studied in detail. Some occur naturally in bacteria and archaea and are thought have evolved as a defense against invading viruses; others are made artificially.
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• GENETICS AND HEREDITY• BIOCHEMISTRY
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