How do restriction enzymes work?

Restriction enzymes are tools used in DNA analysis to analyze very specific sequences of DNA. Upshots of work with restriction enzymes include recombinant DNA technology, commonly referred to as ‘genetic engineering’. These enzymes interact with DNA for a range of functions, including fighting off bacteriophages. Restriction enzymes cleave double-stranded DNA, this is usually in the area of the recognition site. There are extremely specific recognition sequences that restriction enzymes will activate on. After a restriction enzyme recognizes a sequence, it cuts through the DNA molecule by catalyzing the hydrolysis (splitting of a chemical bond by addition of a water molecule) of the bond between adjacent nucleotides. The recognition sequences are generally 4 to 8 base pairs (bp) in length, and cleavage can produce sticky ends (5′ or 3′ protruding ends) or blunt ends.