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Multiple Choice
Which of the following can be used to cleave DNA?
A
DNA ligase
B
Restriction enzymes
C
Helicase
D
RNA polymerase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of each enzyme listed in the problem. DNA ligase is responsible for joining DNA fragments together, specifically by forming phosphodiester bonds between the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA. It does not cleave DNA.
Learn about restriction enzymes. These are specialized proteins that recognize specific sequences in DNA and cleave the DNA at or near these recognition sites. They are commonly used in molecular biology for cutting DNA in a controlled manner.
Examine helicase. Helicase is an enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix by breaking hydrogen bonds between complementary bases, but it does not cleave DNA.
Understand RNA polymerase. RNA polymerase is involved in transcription, where it synthesizes RNA from a DNA template. It does not cleave DNA.
Conclude that restriction enzymes are the correct answer because they are the only enzymes listed that specifically cleave DNA at defined sequences.