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What is the lymphocyte specific enzyme used in VDJ recombination?

User Swaprks
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Final answer:

The specific enzyme used in V(D)J recombination is RAG1, which facilitates the cutting and rejoining of DNA to create a diverse range of antigen receptors on B and T lymphocytes during their maturation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lymphocyte specific enzyme used in V(D)J recombination is known as RAG1. RAG1, or recombination activating gene 1, works together with RAG2 to mediate the specific cutting and rejoining of DNA segments that leads to the immense diversity of the immune system's antibodies and T-cell receptors. The process takes place during the maturation of B and T lymphocytes in the bone marrow and thymus, respectively. As the enzyme cuts and recombines various variable (V), diversity (D), and joining (J) gene segments, it generates a vast array of unique antigen receptor sequences, enabling the adaptive immune system to recognize and respond to a plethora of microbial epitopes and antigens.

User JasonTS
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