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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!