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Multiple Choice
If a ligase enzyme did not function properly during DNA replication, which of the following would most likely occur?
A
Nucleotides would not be added to the growing DNA strand by DNA polymerase.
B
Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand would remain unjoined, resulting in incomplete DNA strands.
C
The DNA double helix would not unwind, preventing replication from starting.
D
RNA primers would not be synthesized, halting DNA synthesis.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of ligase in DNA replication. Ligase is an enzyme responsible for joining Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand by catalyzing the formation of phosphodiester bonds between adjacent DNA fragments.
Step 2: Recall the process of DNA replication. During replication, the lagging strand is synthesized discontinuously in short segments called Okazaki fragments. These fragments need to be joined together to form a continuous strand.
Step 3: Analyze the consequences of ligase malfunction. If ligase does not function properly, the Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand would remain unconnected, leading to incomplete DNA strands.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the growing strand, which is unrelated to ligase function. Helicase unwinds the DNA double helix, and RNA primers are synthesized by primase, both of which are independent of ligase activity.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is: 'Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand would remain unjoined, resulting in incomplete DNA strands,' as this directly relates to the role of ligase in DNA replication.