Question

During replication of DNA, the separated strands are prevented from recoiling by using ______.

• A. Single strand binding protein
• B. Reverse transcriptase
• C. Endonuclease
• D. Polymerase

Hint:

SSBPs are crucial for maintaining the replication fork’s stability during DNA replication.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

During DNA replication, the DNA double helix separates into two single strands, which act as templates for the synthesis of new strands. However, these single strands have a tendency to re-anneal, or coil back together. To prevent recoiling and ensure proper replication, specific proteins are involved in stabilizing the single strands. Let's examine the given options to determine the correct answer:

1. Single Strand Binding Protein (SSB): These proteins bind to the single strands of DNA during replication to prevent them from recoiling. They stabilize the unwound DNA and ensure that the replication process continues smoothly.
2. Reverse Transcriptase: This enzyme synthesizes DNA from an RNA template, which is important in the process of retroviral replication but does not play a role in preventing DNA strands from recoiling.
3. Endonuclease: These enzymes cut DNA strands at specific sites but are not involved in stabilizing single DNA strands during replication.
4. Polymerase: DNA polymerases are responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands complementary to the template strands, not for preventing recoiling of single strands.

From this analysis, it is clear that the correct answer is the Single Strand Binding Protein. They play a critical role in stabilizing the single strands and ensuring efficient replication.

In conclusion, the separated strands during the replication of DNA are prevented from recoiling by Single Strand Binding Proteins (SSB). These proteins hold the individual strands apart to allow the replication machinery to synthesize the new DNA properly.