Question

The restriction enzyme, Eco RI, recognizes and cuts the sequence below.
Based on the cut pattern, what types of bonds are cleaved by the action of the enzyme?

• A. Covalent bonds between the sugar and nitrogenous base.
• B. Covalent bonds within the nitrogenous base.
• C. Covalent bonds between the sugar and phosphate groups.
• D. Hydrogen bonds between the sugar and phosphate.

Answer 1

The correct option is C Covalent bonds between the sugar and phosphate groups.

Restriction enzymes cleave the covalent phosphodiester between sugar and phosphate, hydrogen bonds that hold together two complementary nitrogen bases are weak bonds that do not require any enzyme mediated separation.

So, the correct answer is 'Covalent bonds between the sugar and phosphate groups'