Indicate which of the following are true and which are false. Rewrite any false statements to make them true by changing the underlined words.
__________ Restriction enzymes act at specific nucleotide sequences within a double-stranded DNA molecule.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the statement given: 'Restriction enzymes act at specific nucleotide sequences within a double-stranded DNA molecule.'
2. Understand the role of restriction enzymes: They are proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences, known as recognition sites.
3. Determine if the statement is true or false: Restriction enzymes indeed act at specific nucleotide sequences, so the statement is true.
4. If the statement were false, identify the incorrect part: For example, if it said 'random sequences' instead of 'specific sequences', it would be false.
5. Rewrite the false statement to make it true: Change 'random sequences' to 'specific sequences' to correct it.

Key Concepts

Restriction Enzymes

Restriction enzymes, also known as restriction endonucleases, are proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences. They are essential tools in molecular biology for cloning, gene editing, and DNA analysis. Each restriction enzyme recognizes a particular palindromic sequence in the DNA and cleaves the strands, which can be used to manipulate genetic material.

Nucleotide Sequences

Nucleotide sequences are the ordered arrangements of nucleotides in a DNA or RNA molecule. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The specific sequence of these nucleotides encodes genetic information and determines how genes are expressed, making it crucial for understanding how restriction enzymes function.

Double-Stranded DNA

Double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) consists of two complementary strands that coil around each other to form a double helix. This structure is fundamental to the stability and replication of genetic material. Restriction enzymes typically act on dsDNA, recognizing specific sequences on both strands to make precise cuts, which is vital for various genetic engineering applications.