The tools used to "cut" and "glue" DNA are enzymes.
1. Cutting DNA: Enzymes called restriction enzymes are used to cut DNA at specific sequences. These enzymes act like molecular scissors, recognizing particular sequences of nucleotides and cutting the DNA at those specific points. This process is crucial in genetic engineering and molecular biology to manipulate DNA.
2. Gluing DNA: DNA ligase is the enzyme responsible for "gluing" pieces of DNA together. It catalyzes the formation of phosphodiester bonds between the sugar-phosphate backbones of DNA fragments. DNA ligase is essential in processes like DNA replication, repair, and the creation of recombinant DNA molecules.
In summary, restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences, while DNA ligase is used to join DNA fragments together. These enzymes play vital roles in genetic engineering, molecular biology, and various research applications involving DNA manipulation.
