RNA primers on each Okazaki fragment are replaced with DNA by which enzyme?

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

RNA primers on each Okazaki fragment are replaced with DNA by which enzyme?

Explanation:
RNA primers on Okazaki fragments must be removed and replaced with DNA to join fragments into a continuous strand. In bacteria, DNA polymerase I is the enzyme that does this cleanup and patchwork: it has a 5' to 3' exonuclease activity that removes RNA primers and a 5' to 3' polymerase activity that fills the resulting gaps with DNA. After the primer is replaced, DNA ligase seals the remaining nick to create a continuous sugar-phosphate backbone. The other enzymes don’t perform both primer removal and gap filling (they either synthesize DNA or merely seal nicks).

RNA primers on Okazaki fragments must be removed and replaced with DNA to join fragments into a continuous strand. In bacteria, DNA polymerase I is the enzyme that does this cleanup and patchwork: it has a 5' to 3' exonuclease activity that removes RNA primers and a 5' to 3' polymerase activity that fills the resulting gaps with DNA. After the primer is replaced, DNA ligase seals the remaining nick to create a continuous sugar-phosphate backbone. The other enzymes don’t perform both primer removal and gap filling (they either synthesize DNA or merely seal nicks).

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