Question

The structure of a DNA molecule can be changed by different enzymes. An enzyme that creates a transient break in both strands of a DNA duplex and then allows another DNA fragment to pass through to form or relax supercoil is called a _______.

Answer 1

A topoisomerase is the enzyme that creates a transient break in both DNA strands to relax supercoiling during DNA replication.

Step-by-step explanation:

The enzyme that creates a transient break in both strands of a DNA duplex and then allows another DNA fragment to pass through to form or relax supercoil is called a topoisomerase. During DNA replication, topoisomerase solves the problem caused by the tension generated by the winding and unwinding of DNA.

It does this by wrapping around the DNA and making a cut that permits the helix to spin and relax. Once the DNA is relaxed, topoisomerase reconnects the broken strands. This process prevents the DNA from becoming too tightly wound or forming supercoils that could impede the replication process.