Question

Taq polymerase is an enzyme isolated from the organism Thermophilus aquaticus. This organism has been found living in the hot springs of Yellowstone National Park. This enzyme is used to copy human DNA from crime scenes. Most reactions are performed at ranges similar to those of the human body; however, what considerations should be made for optimum use of this enzyme?

a) The enzyme will not work on human DNA.
b) Nothing should be altered.
c) The temperature should be raised.
d) The pH should be decreased.

Answer 1

c) The temperature should be raised.

Step-by-step explanation:

Taq polymerase is the enzyme isolated from Thermophilus aquaticus. Since Thermophilus aquaticus is adapted to live under the conditions of extremely high temperatures of hot springs, its enzymes should be able to work under extremely high-temperature conditions. Enzymes are proteins and work within the narrow range of optimum temperature only.

To use Taq polymerase as a DNA polymerase to form multiple copies of a small amount of DNA, a higher temperature range should be provided to the reaction mixture. Taq polymerase is resistant to higher temperatures and cannot work below its optimum temperature conditions (around 75-80 degree Celcius).