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Multiple Choice
What is the role of helicase in DNA replication?
A
It unwinds the DNA double helix.
B
It adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand.
C
It joins Okazaki fragments together.
D
It synthesizes new DNA strands.
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 and steps to ensure accurate copying of the genetic material.
Identify the role of helicase: Helicase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in DNA replication. Its primary function is to unwind the DNA double helix, separating the two strands to allow each strand to be copied.
Visualize the unwinding process: Imagine the DNA double helix as a twisted ladder. Helicase works by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the base pairs, effectively 'unzipping' the ladder and creating two single strands.
Recognize the importance of strand separation: By unwinding the DNA, helicase provides single-stranded templates that are necessary for the synthesis of new DNA strands. This separation is essential for the replication machinery to access the DNA bases.
Connect helicase's function to other replication steps: After helicase unwinds the DNA, other enzymes, such as DNA polymerase, add nucleotides to the exposed strands, synthesizing new DNA. Ligase then joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand, completing the replication process.