Multiple Choice
In bacterial DNA replication, which DNA polymerase has 3′→5′ exonuclease proofreading activity?
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8. DNA Replication
Overview of DNA Replication
Multiple Choice
In the context of DNA replication, what is the primary purpose of DNA polymerase?
A
To unwind the DNA double helix by breaking hydrogen bonds between base pairs
B
To lay down short RNA primers to provide a starting point for DNA synthesis
C
To join Okazaki fragments by forming phosphodiester bonds between adjacent DNA segments
D
To synthesize a new DNA strand by adding nucleotides to the end of a growing strand using a DNA template
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of DNA polymerase in DNA replication, which is to synthesize a new DNA strand complementary to the template strand.
Recall that DNA polymerase adds nucleotides only to the 3\' end of the growing DNA strand, meaning synthesis occurs in the 5\' to 3\' direction.
Differentiate DNA polymerase from other enzymes involved in replication: helicase unwinds the DNA, primase lays down RNA primers, and ligase joins Okazaki fragments.
Recognize that DNA polymerase uses the existing DNA strand as a template to ensure accurate base pairing (A with T, and G with C) during the addition of nucleotides.
Conclude that the primary purpose of DNA polymerase is to catalyze the formation of phosphodiester bonds between nucleotides, extending the new DNA strand.
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