Final answer:
DNA polymerase degrades DNA to remove RNA primers and correct replication errors, maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the genetic information.
Step-by-step explanation:
During DNA replication, DNA polymerase needs to degrade the DNA it had just synthesized to remove the RNA primers and repair any errors that might have occurred during synthesis. In DNA replication, RNA primers are initially added to provide a starting point for DNA strand extension, as DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to an existing strand. DNA polymerase I, which possesses a 5'→3' exonuclease activity, is responsible for the removal of these RNA primers. Subsequently, the gaps left behind are replaced with the correct DNA nucleotides. Furthermore, proofreading functions of DNA polymerase ensure that incorrectly incorporated bases are removed, preserving the fidelity of replication. This process occurs preferentially on the non-methylated, newly synthesized strand, allowing for high-accuracy DNA replication.
The proofreading activity of DNA polymerase is critical for correcting errors that have been incorrectly incorporated into the growing DNA strand. This ability to correct mistakes maintains the integrity of the genetic information and prevents mutations from being permanently established. Additionally, DNA polymerases are essential during DNA repair mechanisms to replace damaged or incorrect nucleotides that have been identified.