How Does a Bacterial Cell Protect Its Own DNA from Restriction

Question

How does a bacterial cell protect its own DNA from restriction enzymes?
A)by adding methyl groups to adenines and cytosines
B)by using DNA ligase to seal the bacterial DNA into a closed circle
C)by adding histones to protect the double-stranded DNA
D)by forming "sticky ends" of bacterial DNA to prevent the enzyme from attaching
E)by reinforcing the bacterial DNA structure with covalent phosphodiester bonds

Accepted Answer

Bacterial cells protect their own DNA from restriction enzymes by adding methyl groups to adenines and cytosines. This modification is recognized by specific enzymes called methyltransferases, which protect the DNA by preventing restriction enzymes from cutting at those sites.