Multiple Choice
In the overview of DNA replication, what is the primary role of DNA ligase?
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8. DNA Replication
Overview of DNA Replication
Multiple Choice
In the overview of DNA replication, what is the primary role of DNA ligase?
A
It extends the new DNA strand by adding deoxyribonucleotides to the end.
B
It synthesizes RNA primers needed to initiate DNA synthesis on both strands.
C
It unwinds the DNA double helix ahead of the replication fork by breaking hydrogen bonds.
D
It seals nicks in the sugar-phosphate backbone by joining Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the process of DNA replication, which involves synthesizing new DNA strands complementary to the original template strands.
Recognize that DNA synthesis occurs continuously on the leading strand and discontinuously on the lagging strand, producing short DNA segments called Okazaki fragments.
Recall that these Okazaki fragments are initially separate and need to be joined together to form a continuous DNA strand.
Identify the enzyme DNA ligase as the one responsible for sealing the nicks between Okazaki fragments by forming phosphodiester bonds in the sugar-phosphate backbone.
Conclude that the primary role of DNA ligase is to join these fragments, ensuring the integrity and continuity of the newly synthesized lagging strand.
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