Certain restriction enzymes produce cohesive (sticky) ends. This means that they:
A) cut both DNA strands at the same base pair.
B) cut in regions of high GC content, leaving ends that can form more hydrogen bonds than ends of high AT content.
C) make a staggered double-strand cut, leaving ends with a few nucleotides of single-stranded DNA protruding.
D) make ends that can anneal to cohesive ends generated by any other restriction enzyme.
E) stick tightly to the ends of the DNA they have cut.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Restriction enzymes that produce cohesive (sticky) ends make a staggered double-strand cut in the DNA, leaving ends with a few nucleotides of single-stranded DNA protruding. These single-stranded overhangs can form hydrogen bonds with complementary sequences, allowing for the specific joining of fragments cut by the same or compatible enzymes.

Certain Restriction Enzymes Produce Cohesive (Sticky) Ends