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restriction enzyme
noun
: any of various enzymes that cleave DNA into fragments at specific sites in the interior of the molecule
called also restriction endonuclease
Examples of restriction enzyme in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Some microbes defend themselves from invasion by using molecules known as restriction enzymes.
—Quanta Magazine, 6 Feb. 2015
In the 1970s, molecular biologists figured out how to use restriction enzymes to cut DNA, giving birth to the modern biotechnology industry.
—Quanta Magazine, 6 Feb. 2015
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Word History
First Known Use
1965, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of restriction enzyme was
in 1965
Dictionary Entries Near restriction enzyme
Cite this Entry
“Restriction enzyme.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/restriction%20enzyme. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
Medical Definition
restriction enzyme
noun
: any of various enzymes that cleave DNA into fragments at specific sites in the interior of the molecule and are often used as tools in molecular analysis
More from Merriam-Webster on restriction enzyme
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about restriction enzyme
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