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Multiple Choice
Which of the following proteins is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix during DNA replication?
A
Topoisomerase
B
Primase
C
Ligase
D
Helicase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of DNA replication: DNA replication is the process by which a cell duplicates its DNA before cell division. It involves several enzymes, each with a specific role.
Identify the role of helicase: Helicase is the enzyme responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the complementary base pairs, creating two single strands of DNA.
Differentiate the roles of other enzymes: Topoisomerase relieves the tension caused by the unwinding of the DNA helix, primase synthesizes RNA primers to initiate DNA synthesis, and ligase joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand.
Focus on the unwinding step: Since the question specifically asks about the protein responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix, helicase is the correct answer.
Conclude: Helicase is the enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix during DNA replication, making it the correct choice in this context.