Multiple Choice
During DNA replication, the enzyme ___________, catalyzes the elongation of new DNA by adding, to the 3' end of the previous nucleotide, new nucleotides that are complementary to a DNA template.
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14. DNA Synthesis
Steps of DNA Replication
Multiple Choice
What enzyme joins Okazaki fragments?
A
DNA polymerase
B
Topoisomerase
C
Helicase
D
Primase
E
DNA ligase
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the context: Okazaki fragments are short sequences of DNA nucleotides which are synthesized discontinuously and later linked together during DNA replication on the lagging strand.
Identify the role of each enzyme listed: DNA polymerase synthesizes DNA, Topoisomerase relieves the strain of unwinding, Helicase unwinds the DNA double helix, and Primase synthesizes RNA primers.
Focus on the process of joining DNA fragments: The enzyme responsible for joining Okazaki fragments must be able to form phosphodiester bonds between the DNA fragments.
Recognize the specific function of DNA ligase: DNA ligase is the enzyme that catalyzes the formation of phosphodiester bonds between the 3' hydroxyl end of one nucleotide and the 5' phosphate end of another, effectively joining Okazaki fragments.
Conclude that DNA ligase is the enzyme that joins Okazaki fragments, as it is specifically responsible for sealing nicks in the DNA backbone, completing the DNA replication process on the lagging strand.
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