Some commonly used restriction enzymes are listed in Table 9.1.
a. Indicate which enzymes produce sticky ends.
b. Of what value are sticky ends in making rDNA?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Review Table 9.1 to identify the restriction enzymes listed.
2. Determine which of these enzymes produce sticky ends by checking if they make staggered cuts in the DNA, resulting in overhanging sequences.
3. List the enzymes that produce sticky ends based on their cutting pattern.
4. Explain that sticky ends are valuable in making recombinant DNA (rDNA) because they allow for the easy joining of DNA fragments from different sources.
5. Discuss how the complementary overhangs of sticky ends facilitate the ligation process, increasing the efficiency of forming stable recombinant molecules.

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 manipulating DNA, allowing scientists to isolate and analyze genes. Different restriction enzymes recognize different DNA sequences, which can lead to the production of either 'blunt' or 'sticky' ends when the DNA is cut.

Sticky Ends

Sticky ends are short, single-stranded overhangs that are created when certain restriction enzymes cut DNA in a staggered manner. These overhangs can easily anneal with complementary sequences of DNA, facilitating the ligation process. Sticky ends are particularly valuable in recombinant DNA technology, as they enhance the efficiency of joining DNA fragments from different sources.

Recombinant DNA (rDNA)

Recombinant DNA (rDNA) refers to DNA molecules formed by combining genetic material from different sources. The creation of rDNA is a fundamental technique in genetic engineering, allowing for the introduction of new traits into organisms. The use of sticky ends in rDNA technology is crucial, as they enable the precise joining of DNA fragments, ensuring that the desired genes are inserted correctly into the host organism's genome.