A simple transposon consists of an insertion sequence that contains 1 gene that codes for what structure?

Study for the DNA Replication and DNA Storage Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

A simple transposon consists of an insertion sequence that contains 1 gene that codes for what structure?

Explanation:
Transposases are the enzymes that move transposons by cutting DNA at the target site and excising/inserting the transposon itself. In a simple transposon, the only coding region is a gene for the transposase, flanked by insertion sequences that provide the recognition signals and inverted repeats the enzyme uses. The other enzymes listed—ligase, polymerase, helicase—are general cellular enzymes involved in DNA replication or repair, not the specific transposition activity encoded by the element. So the gene in a simple transposon codes for transposase, the enzyme that mediates its movement.

Transposases are the enzymes that move transposons by cutting DNA at the target site and excising/inserting the transposon itself. In a simple transposon, the only coding region is a gene for the transposase, flanked by insertion sequences that provide the recognition signals and inverted repeats the enzyme uses. The other enzymes listed—ligase, polymerase, helicase—are general cellular enzymes involved in DNA replication or repair, not the specific transposition activity encoded by the element. So the gene in a simple transposon codes for transposase, the enzyme that mediates its movement.

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