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Multiple Choice
Which of the following does the enzyme primase synthesize?
A
DNA strand
B
RNA primer
C
DNA ligase
D
Okazaki fragments
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of primase in DNA replication. Primase is an enzyme that synthesizes short RNA sequences called primers, which are necessary for DNA polymerase to start DNA synthesis.
Recognize that DNA polymerase cannot initiate the synthesis of a DNA strand on its own. It requires a primer to provide a starting point for adding nucleotides.
Identify the RNA primer as the product synthesized by primase. This primer is complementary to the DNA template strand and provides a free 3'-OH group for DNA polymerase to extend.
Differentiate between the options given: DNA strand, RNA primer, DNA ligase, and Okazaki fragments. Primase specifically synthesizes RNA primers, not DNA strands or Okazaki fragments.
Note that DNA ligase is an enzyme involved in joining DNA fragments, such as Okazaki fragments, during DNA replication, but it is not synthesized by primase.