How did Kornberg assess the fidelity of DNA polymerase I in copying a DNA template?

Key Concepts

DNA Polymerase I Function

DNA Polymerase I is an enzyme responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands by adding nucleotides complementary to a DNA template. It plays a crucial role in DNA replication and repair, ensuring that the genetic information is accurately copied. Understanding its mechanism is essential for assessing its fidelity in copying DNA.

Fidelity in DNA Replication

Fidelity refers to the accuracy with which DNA polymerases replicate DNA. High fidelity is critical to prevent mutations, which can lead to genetic disorders or cancer. Factors influencing fidelity include the enzyme's ability to select the correct nucleotide and its proofreading activity, which corrects errors during DNA synthesis.

Experimental Assessment Techniques

Kornberg employed various experimental techniques to assess the fidelity of DNA Polymerase I, such as using labeled nucleotides to track incorporation and analyzing the resulting DNA for errors. These methods allowed for quantifying the accuracy of nucleotide incorporation and identifying the frequency of misincorporation events, providing insights into the enzyme's performance.