Restriction Is

Question

Restriction is
A) the viral process whereby a hostʹs DNA ceases normal functioning.
B) the viral process whereby the virus prevents other viruses from entering the cell.
C) a general host mechanism to prevent the invasion of foreign nucleic acid.
D) a general host mechanism to prevent virus particles from further infective action.

Accepted Answer

Restriction is a general host mechanism to prevent the invasion of foreign nucleic acid. This mechanism involves the recognition and degradation of foreign DNA by restriction enzymes, which cut the DNA at specific recognition sites. This process helps to defend the host against viral infection and other foreign DNA invasion. Options A and B describe viral processes, which are not relevant to the definition of restriction. Option D is not a correct description of restriction, as it does not involve the prevention of further infective action, but rather the prevention of initial infection by foreign DNA.