What is the difference between a blunt end and a sticky end?
Basis for comparison | Sticky ends | Blunt ends |
Formation | When a restriction enzyme makes staggered cuts that aren't exactly opposite each other, it's called a staggered cut. | When a restriction enzyme cuts both DNA strands in the same spot, it creates a restriction site. |
Physical characteristics | Overhangs on the ends allow the two ends to base-pair and connect with another DNA strand. | There are no overhangs or unpaired bases on the ends, which are blunt. |
Also known as | Cohesive ends | Non-cohesive ends |