A restriction enzyme recognizes the sequence 5ʹ-GTCATGAC-3ʹ and makes staggered cuts.Which statement is most likely to be true?
A) Sticky ends should arise because the enzyme makes staggered cuts.
B) Sticky ends should arise because the restriction site starts with a G.
C) Sticky ends should arise because the restriction site is more than six nucleotides long.
D) Blunt ends should arise because the enzyme makes staggered cuts.
E) Blunt ends should arise because the restriction site is more than six nucleotides long.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Staggered cuts by a restriction enzyme result in sticky ends, where the overhanging nucleotides can base pair with complementary overhangs on other DNA fragments. The fact that the enzyme recognizes the sequence 5ʹ-GTCATGAC-3ʹ does not determine whether sticky or blunt ends will result. The length of the restriction site is also not a determining factor since there are restriction enzymes that recognize sites shorter than six nucleotides and produce sticky ends. The fact that the restriction site starts with a G is also not a determining factor since there are restriction enzymes that recognize sites starting with other nucleotides and produce sticky ends. Therefore, the best answer is A, as this statement correctly applies to the situation described.

A Restriction Enzyme Recognizes the Sequence 5ʹ-GTCATGAC-3ʹ and Makes Staggered