Definition

Noun: A specific, short sequence of nucleotides in a DNA molecule that is recognized and cut by a particular restriction enzyme. It is the target location for enzymatic cleavage.

Usage

The term "restriction site" is used in molecular biology and genetics to describe the precise location on a DNA strand where a restriction endonuclease acts. It is a fundamental concept in techniques like DNA cloning, genetic engineering, and genome mapping.

Examples

• The plasmid must contain a restriction site for EcoRI to insert the gene fragment.
• Researchers analyzed the DNA sequence to identify all possible restriction sites.
• The absence of a restriction site in the gene made the cloning strategy more complex.

Advanced Usage

• "To map restriction sites": To determine the locations of restriction sites along a segment of DNA, creating a restriction map.
  • The first step was to map the restriction sites on the bacterial chromosome.
• "Restriction site polymorphism": A variation in the DNA sequence that alters the presence or absence of a restriction site between individuals or populations.
  • The study focused on a restriction site polymorphism linked to the disease gene.

Variants and Related Words

• Restriction Enzyme / Restriction Endonuclease (n): The enzyme that recognizes and cuts at a specific restriction site.
• Restriction Fragment (n): A piece of DNA produced after cutting with a restriction enzyme.
• Restriction Map (n): A diagram showing the locations of restriction sites within a DNA sequence.

Synonyms

• Cleavage site
• Recognition site (Note: This can be synonymous, though "recognition site" sometimes specifically refers to the sequence recognized, while "restriction site" implies the location of both recognition and cleavage.)

Related Phrases

• "To cut at a restriction site": The action of the restriction enzyme cleaving the DNA.
  • The enzyme will cut at its restriction site, producing sticky ends.
• "To contain/have a restriction site": Describes a DNA sequence that includes the specific nucleotide pattern.
  • Does this PCR product contain a restriction site for BamHI?

Noun

1. the specific sites at which a restriction enzyme will cleave DNA