Fidelity of DNA Replication and Function of DNA Polymerases

Very Hard Biochemistry Nucleic Acids And Dna Replication

The fidelity of DNA replication is critical to maintaining genetic integrity. Various proteins and enzymes are involved in the process, ensuring that the synthesis of the daughter strands accurately mirrors the parental template. Key components include DNA polymerases, helicases, primases, and various repair mechanisms.

During DNA replication, the complex unwinding of the double helix occurs aided by helicase enzymes, leading to the formation of replication forks. The polymerization of nucleotides into a new DNA strand is performed by DNA polymerases, which necessitate a template strand and a primer. Errors during replication, if not corrected, can result in mutations.

Which of the following statements correctly characterizes DNA polymerases in terms of their function in the process of DNA replication?

DNA polymerases can initiate the synthesis of a new DNA strand without a primer.

All DNA polymerases have the same role in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.

DNA polymerases possess proofreading ability, allowing them to correct errors during DNA replication.

DNA polymerases synthesize RNA primers that are later extended by other enzymes.

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