Restriction Enzymes

Restriction enzymes can be used to cut strands of DNA at specific sequences. If there is a known mutation in the DNA, these restriction enzymes can cut it out. Then using the sequences of plasmids to clone DNA, we can insert specific sequences. Other enzymes, ligases, can glue at the recognition sequences where the restriction enzyme cut. By harnessing this molecular machine, genetic engineers can modify DNA, possibly eliminating mutations. Especially now since the human genome is known, this technology can really do a lot for harmful mutations.