Multiple Choice
The synthesis of a new strand of DNA begins with which of the following?
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14. DNA Synthesis
Introduction to DNA Replication
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What is the role of primase in DNA replication?
A
It synthesizes short RNA primers to initiate DNA synthesis.
B
It adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand in a 5' to 3' direction.
C
It joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand.
D
It unwinds the DNA double helix to allow replication to occur.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the process of DNA replication, which involves the synthesis of a new DNA strand complementary to the template strand.
Identify the role of primase in DNA replication. Primase is an enzyme that synthesizes short RNA primers.
Recognize that these RNA primers are necessary because DNA polymerase cannot initiate synthesis on its own; it can only add nucleotides to an existing strand.
Note that primase synthesizes these RNA primers in the 5' to 3' direction, providing a starting point for DNA polymerase to begin adding DNA nucleotides.
Clarify that primase does not join Okazaki fragments or unwind the DNA helix; these tasks are performed by other enzymes like DNA ligase and helicase, respectively.
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