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A restriction enzyme is an endonuclease that binds and cuts double-stranded DNA at a specific nucleotide sequence. Some restriction enzymes cut both strands, generating blunt ends whereas others generate sticky ends. Restriction combined with DNA modification, which impede the cutting of the DNA, is a protection system against the introduction of foreign DNA sequences into prokaryotic systems. These enzymes have been instrumental in the development of cloning and genetic engineering techniques.
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© 2015 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg
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Peretó, J. (2015). Restriction Enzyme. In: Gargaud, M., et al. Encyclopedia of Astrobiology. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-44185-5_1368
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-44185-5_1368
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