Which of the following is called molecular scissors in context of biotechnology?
(a) DNA ligase
(b) Restriction exonucleases
(c) DNA polymerase
(d) Restriction endonucleases

Options

A. DNA ligase
B. Restriction exonucleases
C. DNA polymerase
D. Restriction endonucleases

Answer

To solve the question "Which of the following is called molecular scissors in context of biotechnology?", we need to analyze the options provided:

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for an enzyme that is referred to as "molecular scissors" in biotechnology. This term typically refers to enzymes that can cut DNA at specific sites.

2. **Examining the Options**:
- **(a) DNA ligase**: This enzyme is responsible for joining DNA fragments together, not cutting them. Therefore, it cannot be the correct answer.
- **(b) Restriction exonucleases**: These enzymes cut DNA from the ends, rather than at specific internal sites. They are not referred to as molecular scissors.
- **(c) DNA polymerase**: This enzyme synthesizes new DNA strands during replication but does not cut DNA. Hence, it is not the correct answer.
- **(d) Restriction endonucleases**: These enzymes cut DNA at specific internal sites, making them capable of acting as molecular scissors. They recognize specific sequences in the DNA and cut at those sites.

3. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is **(d) Restriction endonucleases**. These enzymes are indeed referred to as molecular scissors because they can cut DNA at specific locations.