DNase footprinting is a lab technique used to find out which segments of a DNA molecule are protected by DNA-binding proteins from attack by endonuclease enzymes. The enzymes will break down DNA into smaller fragments by cleaving its phosphodiester bonds. The technique uses gel electrophoresis to find out which parts of the DNA have sites for proteins to attach to by comparing DNA which has been in the presence of DNA-binding proteins with DNA that is "pure."
From the BioTech Dictionary at http://biotech.icmb.utexas.edu/. For further information see the BioTech homenode.
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