Question:

The natural defence mechanism of bacteria occurs for:

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In molecular cloning, restriction endonucleases are exploited as "molecular scissors" to cut DNA at precise palindromic locations, but their ecological role in nature is strictly anti-viral defense.
Updated On: Jun 19, 2026
  • Destruction of bacteria's own DNA during replication.
  • Facilitating efficient cloning process.
  • Destruction of invading viral DNA.
  • Destruction of invading bacterial DNA.
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Concept
Bacteria have evolved complex immune defense mechanisms to protect themselves against foreign genetic invaders, particularly bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria).

Step 2: Restriction-Modification (R-M) System

The primary defense mechanism is the Restriction-Modification system, which consists of two key enzymes:
1. Restriction Endonucleases: These enzymes recognize specific, short palindromic sequences in foreign DNA and cut both strands, rendering the invading viral DNA non-functional.
2. Methyltransferases: These enzymes methylate specific bases (adenine or cytosine) within the host bacterium's own restriction sites. This methylation sterically prevents host endonucleases from binding, protecting the bacterium's own DNA from self-destruction.


Step 3: Conclusion

Hence, the natural restriction defense mechanism is intended for the selective destruction of invading viral (bacteriophage) DNA, matching option (C). Final Answer: (C)
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