The restriction enzymes are involved in cutting of linear DNA strands into smaller fragments. This enzyme is also referred to as restriction endonucleases. These enzymes are involved in the chemical modification of the DNA. It is divided into three major classes, namely, type I, type II, and type III restriction endonucleases. These enzymes are widespread among Bacteria and Archaea and rarely spread among eukaryotes.
Explanation of Solution
The restriction enzymes recognize specific base sequences of the DNA molecule and cut its phosphodiester backbone. This would lead to the cleavage or break in the double-stranded DNA and forms small fragments that could be manipulated as desired. The restriction enzymes have a unique recognition site for itself and cut the DNA only at the specific sites.
It is very difficult to study and manipulate large DNA molecules. The restriction enzymes are used to cut large DNA molecules at its specific site and made easier for manipulating and studying the larger DNA molecules.
The presence of the restriction enzymes in the host cell would protect its own DNA from the degradation. This is carried out by the action of modification enzymes. These enzymes induce changes in the restriction sites of the host DNA and make them resist the action of the restriction endonucleases. An example of this involves the methylation of the host DNA in which its cognate sequences could not be recognized by the restriction enzymes.
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