STICKY END Meaning and
Definition
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Sticky end refers to a common term used in molecular biology, particularly in the field of genetic engineering and recombinant DNA technology. It refers to the single-stranded overhanging ends of DNA fragments that result from the action of certain restriction enzymes.
Restriction enzymes, also known as restriction endonucleases, are proteins that recognize specific DNA sequences and cut the DNA at or near these sites. The cut produces two DNA fragments, each having an exposed or unpaired single-stranded region, referred to as a sticky end. Sticky ends are called so because they have a tendency to "stick" or base pair specifically with complementary single-stranded regions.
Sticky ends are crucial in molecular biology techniques such as DNA cloning and genetic engineering. They allow for the efficient and specific joining of two different DNA fragments by complementary base pairing. When sticky ends from two different DNA fragments with compatible sequences are mixed, they can anneal together, creating a stable hybrid molecule. This process is known as DNA ligation and is an essential step in the creation of recombinant DNA molecules.
The ability to generate and exploit sticky ends has revolutionized biotechnology by enabling precise DNA manipulation and gene transfer. It has contributed to various advancements in fields such as medical research, agriculture, and industrial biotechnology. Sticky ends have become indispensable tools in the construction of gene libraries, genetic mapping, protein production, and the study of gene function.
Common Misspellings for STICKY END
- aticky end
- zticky end
- xticky end
- dticky end
- eticky end
- wticky end
- sricky end
- sficky end
- sgicky end
- syicky end
- s6icky end
- s5icky end
- stucky end
- stjcky end
- stkcky end
- stocky end
- st9cky end
- st8cky end
- stixky end
Etymology of STICKY END
The phrase "sticky end" is primarily used in British English and it is derived from the word "stick" in the sense of "to stab". The term originally emerged in the 19th century and has its roots in criminal slang. In this context, a "sticky end" referred to a violent or unpleasant death, often brought about by hanging, stabbing, or any other form of deadly violence. The use of "sticky" in this expression can be understood metaphorically as referring to something that is difficult to escape from, just like sticky glue or a sticky situation. Over time, the phrase "sticky end" has evolved to have broader meanings outside of its criminal connotation and can now refer to any unpleasant, unfortunate, or disastrous outcome.
Idioms with the word STICKY END
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come to/meet a sticky end
The idiom "come to/meet a sticky end" means to meet an unpleasant, unfortunate, or inglorious fate. It is often used to describe a person's demise, typically involving a downfall, calamity, or tragic ending. The term "sticky" implies that the end is undesirable, unpleasant, or difficult to get rid of, creating a sense of discomfort or adversity.
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come to a sticky end
The idiom "come to a sticky end" means to meet a tragic or unfortunate fate, often due to one's own actions or choices. It implies a negative outcome that is difficult or unpleasant.
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meet a sticky end
The idiom "meet a sticky end" is used to describe a grim or unfortunate fate or outcome. It implies that someone or something comes to an unpleasant or messy demise or conclusion.
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come to a bad/sticky end
To meet an unfortunate or unpleasant fate; to experience a negative outcome or consequences.
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a bad/sticky end
"A bad/sticky end" refers to a gruesome or unfortunate outcome or conclusion to a situation, often involving harm, failure, or negative consequences. It can also refer to a person's untimely death, especially if it is tragic or violent in nature.
Similar spelling words for STICKY END
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