ligase

views updated May 21 2018

ligase Any of a class of enzymes that catalyse the formation of covalent bonds using the energy released by the cleavage of ATP. Ligases are important in the synthesis and repair of many biological molecules, including DNA (see DNA ligase), and are used in genetic engineering to insert foreign DNA into cloning vectors.

A Dictionary of Biology

ligase

views updated May 23 2018

ligase An enzyme that catalyses a reaction which joins 2 substrates, using energy derived from the simultaneous hydrolysis of a nucleotide triphosphate.

A Dictionary of Plant Sciences MICHAEL ALLABY

ligase

views updated May 21 2018

ligase An enzyme that catalyses a reaction that joins two substrates, using energy derived from the simultaneous hydrolysis of a nucleotide triphosphate.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY