Restriction Enzyme

C1 16+
Pronunciation Definitions Examples Grammatical Forms Origin and Evolution

Pronunciation: /rɪˈstrɪkʃən ˈɛnzaɪm/

Definitions of restriction enzyme

noun A type of enzyme that cuts DNA at specific locations, often used in genetic engineering

Example Sentences

A1 A restriction enzyme is a type of protein that can cut DNA at specific sequences.

A2 Scientists use restriction enzymes to manipulate DNA in the lab for various experiments.

B1 Understanding how restriction enzymes work is essential for genetic engineering techniques.

B2 The specificity of restriction enzymes allows for precise DNA editing in biotechnology applications.

C1 Researchers have developed new restriction enzymes with enhanced cutting capabilities for advanced genetic studies.

C2 The discovery of novel restriction enzymes has revolutionized the field of molecular biology.

Examples of restriction enzyme in a Sentence

formal The restriction enzyme was used to cleave the DNA at specific sites.

informal We used the restriction enzyme to cut the DNA into smaller pieces.

slang We zapped the DNA with the restriction enzyme to chop it up.

figurative The restriction enzyme acted like molecular scissors, snipping the DNA into fragments.

Grammatical Forms of restriction enzyme

plural

restriction enzymes

present tense

restricts enzyme

future tense

will restrict enzyme

perfect tense

has restricted enzyme

continuous tense

is restricting enzyme

singular

restriction enzyme

positive degree

more restriction enzyme

infinitive

to restrict enzyme

gerund

restricting enzyme

participle

restricted enzyme

Origin and Evolution of restriction enzyme

First Known Use: 1970 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The term 'restriction enzyme' was coined to describe enzymes found in bacteria that restrict the growth of bacteriophages by cutting their DNA at specific sites.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to refer to enzymes that restrict the growth of bacteriophages, the term 'restriction enzyme' has evolved to encompass a broader range of enzymes that cleave DNA at specific recognition sites.