Question

Telomerase functions as:

• A. DNA dependent RNA polymerase
• B. DNA dependent DNA polymerase
• C. RNA dependent DNA polymerase
• D. RNA dependent RNA polymerase

Hint:

Telomerase uses its RNA component as a template to synthesize repetitive DNA sequences at chromosome ends.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding Telomerase Function 
Telomerase is an enzyme that adds repetitive nucleotide sequences to the ends of chromosomes (telomeres), using an RNA template. 
Step 2: Evaluating the Options 
- Option (A): Incorrect, as telomerase is not RNA polymerase. 
- Option (B): Incorrect, as telomerase synthesizes DNA, not in a DNA-dependent manner. 
- Option (C): Correct, telomerase functions as an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase, using its RNA template to synthesize DNA. 
- Option (D): Incorrect, as it does not synthesize RNA. 
Step 3: Conclusion 
Telomerase adds DNA sequences to telomeres using an RNA template, making it an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase.