Describe the role of two named enzymes in the process of semi-conservative replication of DNA.
- AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 9 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 9
Describe the role of two named enzymes in the process of semi-conservative replication of DNA.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe the role of two named enzymes in the process of semi-conservative replication of DNA.
- AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 9 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
DNA helicase role
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Answer
The enzyme DNA helicase plays a crucial role in semi-conservative replication by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the two strands of the DNA double helix. This unwinding of the DNA is essential for allowing access to the strands for replication.
Step 2
DNA polymerase role
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Answer
DNA polymerase is responsible for adding nucleotides to the growing DNA strand. It works by catalyzing the formation of phosphodiester bonds between the newly added nucleotides, thereby extending the complementary strand as replication proceeds.