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Explain the role of DnaB, Mcm2-7, and Rep protein in DNA replication.

User Ste
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Final answer:

DnaB is a prokaryotic helicase that unwinds DNA at the replication fork, Mcm2-7 are eukaryotic helicases performing a similar function, and Rep protein (RPA) stabilizes single-stranded DNA during replication.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process of DNA replication is a complex mechanism that involves various enzymes and proteins to ensure accurate duplication of genetic material. DnaB is a helicase in prokaryotes that separates the two strands of the DNA double helix at the replication fork, allowing each strand to serve as a template for replication. In eukaryotic cells, a complex of six related helicases known as Mcm2-7 serves a similar function to DnaB, unwinding the DNA ahead of the replication machinery. The Rep protein, also known as replication protein A (RPA), binds to single-stranded DNA and is involved in protecting it from degradation as well as preventing secondary structure formation during replication.

In essence, DnaB and Mcm2-7 ensure that the DNA strands are separated and made accessible for replication enzymes, while the Rep protein stabilizes the unwound DNA. These components are crucial for the accurate and efficient replication of the genome.

User YaTaras
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