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Multiple Choice
Which enzyme prevents supercoiling of DNA during replication by introducing transient breaks in the DNA strands?
A
Ligase
B
Polymerase
C
Topoisomerase
D
Helicase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the problem: DNA supercoiling occurs during replication as the DNA strands are unwound by helicase. This creates tension in the DNA molecule, which needs to be relieved to allow replication to proceed smoothly.
Identify the role of each enzyme listed: Ligase seals nicks in the DNA backbone, Polymerase synthesizes new DNA strands, Helicase unwinds the DNA strands, and Topoisomerase introduces transient breaks to relieve supercoiling.
Focus on the function of Topoisomerase: Topoisomerase works by cutting one or both strands of the DNA, allowing the molecule to relax and then resealing the breaks. This prevents the accumulation of supercoils during replication.
Relate the enzyme's function to the problem: Since the question asks for the enzyme that prevents supercoiling, Topoisomerase is the correct answer because it directly addresses the issue of tension caused by unwinding.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the functions of the enzymes provided, Topoisomerase is the enzyme responsible for preventing supercoiling during DNA replication by introducing transient breaks in the DNA strands.