Restriction enzymes, vectors, DNA ligase, and host cells are the basic tools of recombinant DNA technology. Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific recognition sequences. Vectors are DNA molecules that can replicate in host cells and accept foreign DNA. Common vectors include plasmids and phages. DNA ligase joins DNA fragments. A variety of host cells, such as E. coli and yeast, are used to replicate recombinant DNA vectors.