nuclease
LowTechnical/Scientific
Definition
Meaning
An enzyme that cleaves the phosphodiester bonds between nucleotides in nucleic acids (DNA or RNA).
A class of enzymes that hydrolyze nucleic acids, playing critical roles in DNA replication, repair, recombination, and gene regulation. They are often categorized by their specificity (e.g., DNase, RNase) or mode of action (endonuclease vs. exonuclease).
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term is an umbrella for various enzymes with distinct specificities; context often clarifies the type. It is typically a count noun (e.g., 'a nuclease').
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning, spelling, or usage. The pronunciation of the first syllable may vary slightly (/ˈnjuː-/ in BrE vs. /ˈnuː-/ in AmE).
Connotations
None; identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low in general usage, but common in molecular biology contexts in both regions.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[nuclease] + [verb: cleaves/digests/degrades] + [nucleic acid][specific] nucleasenuclease + [preposition: from/in/of]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Academic
Central to molecular biology textbooks, research papers, and lab protocols discussing gene editing, DNA analysis, or enzymatic degradation.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Frequent in laboratory settings, biotech protocols, and scientific discussions regarding genetic engineering, DNA sequencing, or CRISPR-Cas systems.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Scientists use nuclease enzymes in labs.
- A nuclease can cut DNA into smaller pieces.
- The restriction nuclease cleaved the plasmid at a specific recognition site.
- CRISPR-associated nucleases, such as Cas9, have revolutionised genome editing by enabling precise, targeted DNA cleavage.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'NUCLease' cuts NUCLeic acids like a pair of molecular scissors.
Conceptual Metaphor
A molecular scissors or knife that cuts genetic material.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'nucleus' (ядро). The Russian equivalent 'нуклеаза' is a direct cognate, but ensure it is not misheard as 'нуклеиновая кислота' (nucleic acid).
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'nucleace' or 'nucleaze'.
- Mispronouncing the first syllable as /ˈnʌk-/ instead of /ˈnjuː-/ or /ˈnuː-/.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a nuclease?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A nuclease cleaves nucleic acids (DNA/RNA), while a protease cleaves proteins.
No, nucleases vary in specificity (DNA vs. RNA), mode of action (endonuclease vs. exonuclease), and recognition sequence (specific vs. non-specific).
Restriction nucleases (restriction enzymes) are used to cut DNA at specific sequences, enabling gene insertion, deletion, or modification.
Yes, some are used in food processing (e.g., to remove nucleic acids) and in certain contact lens cleaning solutions to break down DNA-based contaminants.