Restriction Enzyme - Action of EcoRI

Legend:
The action of restriction enzymes

Restriction enzymes, also called restriction nucleases (EcoRI in this example) , surrounds the DNA molecule at the point it seeks(sequence GAATTC). It cuts one strand of the DNA double helix at one point and the second strand at a different, complementary point (between the G and the A base). The separated pieces have single stranded "sticky-ends," which allow the complementary pieces to combine.

The newly joined pieces are stabilized by DNA ligase.

EcoRI, one of many restriction enzymes, is obtained from the bacteria Escherichia coli.