restriction enzyme

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any of a group of enzymes that catalyze the cleavage of DNA molecules at specific sites: used for gene splicing in recombinant DNA technology and for chromosome mapping.

restriction enzyme

noun

1. any of several enzymes produced by bacteria as a defence against viral infection and commonly used to cut DNA for genetic manipulation or diagnosis

Word History and Origins

Origin of restriction enzyme¹

First recorded in 1960–65