What is the function of DNA polymerase?

What is the function of DNA polymerase?

• A. Adds nucleotides to build the daughter strand
• B. Unwinds the DNA helix
• C. Seals nicks in the DNA backbone
• D. Removes RNA primers

Answer: (C)

DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to grow the new DNA strand during replication. It uses the template strand and, with a primer in place, catalyzes the formation of phosphodiester bonds to extend the daughter strand in the 5' to 3' direction. Many polymerases also proofread as they go, correcting mistakes to keep replication accurate. Other enzymes perform related tasks: helicase unwinds the helix, DNA ligase seals remaining nicks after fragment synthesis, and RNA primers are removed and replaced with DNA by other enzymes. So the function that best describes DNA polymerase is building the new DNA by adding nucleotides.

DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to grow the new DNA strand during replication. It uses the template strand and, with a primer in place, catalyzes the formation of phosphodiester bonds to extend the daughter strand in the 5' to 3' direction. Many polymerases also proofread as they go, correcting mistakes to keep replication accurate. Other enzymes perform related tasks: helicase unwinds the helix, DNA ligase seals remaining nicks after fragment synthesis, and RNA primers are removed and replaced with DNA by other enzymes. So the function that best describes DNA polymerase is building the new DNA by adding nucleotides.