In bacterial replication initiation, which protein is primarily responsible for starting the process at the origin?

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

In bacterial replication initiation, which protein is primarily responsible for starting the process at the origin?

Initiation of bacterial DNA replication is driven by a protein that binds to the origin, oriC, in an ATP-dependent way to assemble at multiple sites and open the DNA. This initiator protein, DnaA, binds to DnaA boxes and oligomerizes, causing local unwinding of the AT-rich region and creating the replication bubble. That opening event is the trigger that recruits the helicase complex (DnaB loaded by DnaC) to continue replication. DnaB then unwinds the DNA, and DnaG synthesizes RNA primers to start synthesis. RFC is a eukaryotic clamp loader and isn’t involved in bacterial initiation. So the starting signal at the origin is provided by DnaA.

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