71.9k views
2 votes
Binds to single stranded DNA to keep it from reforming double stranded DNA.

A. True
B. False

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

Single-stranded binding proteins (SSBs) bind to single-stranded DNA during DNA replication to prevent it from re-annealing into a double helix, thereby maintaining the separation of DNA strands and ensuring accurate replication.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement 'Bind to single-stranded DNA to keep it from reforming double-stranded DNA' is referring to the function of single-stranded binding proteins (SSBs). During DNA replication, the enzyme helicase unwinds the DNA molecule, separating the two strands. To prevent the separated single-strand DNA from re-annealing into a double helix, SSBs bind to the single-stranded DNA. This action protects the DNA strands from forming secondary structures and keeps them in an elongated form so that replication can occur properly. The SSBs play a crucial role in DNA replication by maintaining the strand separation ensured by the helicase.

Regarding the examples provided in the reference information, it's clear that SSBs are crucial in maintaining the separation of DNA strands during replication, and without them, the helicase would not be able to keep the strands apart effectively. DNA polymerase can then synthesize a new strand along the single-stranded DNA template. These proteins are thus essential in the accurate replication of DNA in living cells.

User ArdentLearner
by
8.0k points