Question

Can blunt ends be ligated?

Answer 1

Ligation

1. In molecular biology, ligation refers to the joining of two DNA fragments.
2. The ligation process is done by an enzyme known as DNA ligase. Ligases repair single and double-stranded breaks that happen during DNA replication.

Blunt end:

1. The end of linear DNA molecules is termed the blunt or sticky ends.
2. The simplest DNA end of a double-stranded molecule is known as the blunt end. There are no DNA strands on either side of the blunt end after cutting with the restriction enzyme.
3. Blunt ends can be ligated by the DNA ligase enzyme.
4. As there are no overhanging ends in blunt ends the ligation process occurs in the simplest form. No complementary strands are needed for blunt-end ligation.