What does endonuclease mean?
An endonuclease is a type of enzyme that cuts within a DNA or RNA molecule, specifically hydrolyzing the phosphodiester bond within a polynucleotide chain. This action is crucial in various molecular biology applications, including genetic engineering and DNA manipulation. Endonucleases, particularly restriction endonucleases, are widely used tools in laboratories for editing genes and analyzing DNA structures. Their ability to cleave DNA at precise locations makes them invaluable for constructing recombinant DNA molecules and for DNA sequencing.
nounAn enzyme that cleaves the phosphodiester bond within a polynucleotide chain, often used in molecular biology for DNA manipulation.
- An enzyme that cuts within a DNA or RNA molecule.
- A type of nuclease that hydrolyzes phosphodiester bonds within a polynucleotide chain.
"The researchers used a specific endonuclease to cut the DNA at a precise location."
"The genetic engineers employed an endonuclease to edit the gene."
"The endonuclease was able to cleave the DNA at a specific recognition site."
The plural form is used when referring to multiple types of endonucleases or multiple molecules of the enzyme.
"The laboratory stocked several different endonucleases for their experiments."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of endonuclease
The term 'endonuclease' is derived from the prefix 'endo-', meaning 'within', and 'nuclease', which refers to an enzyme that cleaves nucleic acids. The term was first used in the mid-20th century as molecular biology began to advance. Endonucleases are closely related to exonucleases, which cleave nucleic acids from the ends rather than within.
Usage notes
Often used in molecular biology and genetic engineering, this term is primarily used in formal and technical contexts.