What is the frequency with which a 4 bp cutter will cut the DNA, assuming random distribution of bases in the genome?
What is the frequency with which a 4 bp cutter will cut the DNA, assuming random distribution of bases in the genome?
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Correct Answer: Option D
Explanation
For a restriction enzyme that recognises a specific-base sequence, assuming equal and random distribution of all 4 bases (A, T, G, C), the probability of finding that exact sequence at any given position is. For a 4-base cutter:. This means the enzyme cuts on average once every 256 bp. A 6-base cutter cuts everybp, and an 8-base cutter everybp. This is why rare-cutters (8-base) are used for pulsed-field gel electrophoresis of whole chromosomes.