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DNA polymerase requires a primer to initiate DNA replication. In a PCR reaction,

ID: 51584 • Letter: D

Question

DNA polymerase requires a primer to initiate DNA replication. In a PCR reaction, DNA primers are added to the reaction. In E.coli, how are primers provided?

In vivo DNA replication does not require a primer.

DNA primers are synthesized by DNA polymerase I.

RNA primers are synthesized by DNA primase.

E.coli DNA polymerase III has a primer embedded inside the enzyme.

A.

In vivo DNA replication does not require a primer.

B.

DNA primers are synthesized by DNA polymerase I.

C.

RNA primers are synthesized by DNA primase.

D.

E.coli DNA polymerase III has a primer embedded inside the enzyme.

Explanation / Answer

The answer is C. RNA primers are synthesized by DNA primase.

DNA polymerases require 3' -OH group to extend the polynucleotide. However to create a 3'-OH group a DNA primase intially adds a short RNA which is then extended by the DNA polymerase. Later this RNA is removed by an RNAse and that short gap is filled by a low processivity DNA polymerase.

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