* Restriction enzymes: These enzymes act like molecular scissors, cutting DNA at specific sequences called restriction sites. They create sticky ends, which are short, single-stranded overhangs that can base-pair with complementary sequences.
* Ligase enzymes: These enzymes act like molecular glue, joining the sticky ends of two different DNA fragments together. They form phosphodiester bonds between the sugar-phosphate backbones of the DNA fragments, creating a continuous DNA molecule.
In summary: Restriction enzymes cut the DNA, and ligase enzymes join the pieces together. This process allows for the insertion of a gene of interest into a vector, creating recombinant DNA.
