Loading…
Loading…
GCSE Biology · key term
A short, unpaired stretch of bases at the end of a cut DNA fragment that can pair with a complementary end.
Used by OCR
Specification B6.2e · Paper 2 (Foundation), Paper 4 (Higher)
Revise: Genetic engineering processThe same restriction enzyme cuts open a plasmid. Its staggered cuts leave short stretches of unpaired bases called sticky ends. Because the gene fragment and plasmid were cut with the same enzyme, their complementary sticky ends can pair.
Keep the roles distinct: restriction enzymes cut DNA, matching sticky ends help the pieces pair, and DNA ligase joins them.
Create a free account to read GCSE Biology revision notes for your exam board and track your progress.