Webcutter was an early online tool for finding restriction enzyme sites in a DNA sequence. It is no longer maintained, but the same analysis — and more — is available in modern tools. For an up-to-date, supported restriction analysis, use NEBcutter V3.0.
Modern alternatives to Webcutter
- NEBcutter V3.0 — find cut sites, single cutters, non-cutters and fragment sizes for Type II and commercial enzymes; the recommended replacement.
- PlasMapper — annotate a plasmid map including restriction sites.
- Restriction enzyme cloning guide — how to choose enzymes and plan a digest.
What restriction site mapping is for
Mapping where enzymes cut lets you pick single cutters for linearising a vector, plan diagnostic digests to confirm a construct, and design cloning strategies. Enter your sequence into NEBcutter and check that your chosen enzyme cuts where you expect — and not inside your insert.
Frequently asked questions
Is Webcutter still available?
Webcutter is legacy and unmaintained. Use NEBcutter V3.0 for a current, supported restriction analysis.
What replaced Webcutter?
Tools like NEBcutter cover the same restriction-site mapping with an updated enzyme database and interface.
