Question

What is the role of a primer in DNA replication? What would happen if you forgot to add a primer in a tube containing the reaction mix for a DNA sequencing reaction?

a) Role of a primer: Provides a starting point for DNA polymerase. Without a primer, DNA replication would not occur.
b) Role of a primer: Helps in proofreading DNA strands. Without a primer, DNA replication would proceed normally.
c) Role of a primer: Stimulates helicase activity. Without a primer, DNA strands would not separate.
d) Role of a primer: Maintains the structure of DNA. Without a primer, DNA would denature.

Answer 1

A primer is essential in DNA replication as it provides a starting point for DNA polymerase. Without a primer, DNA replication cannot occur. If a primer is forgotten in a DNA sequencing reaction, DNA replication will not proceed.

Step-by-step explanation:

A primer plays a crucial role in DNA replication by providing a starting point for DNA polymerase. Without a primer, DNA replication would not occur. The primer is a short segment of RNA that is complementary to the DNA template strand. DNA polymerase can then extend the primer by adding nucleotides one by one.

If you forgot to add a primer in a tube containing the reaction mix for a DNA sequencing reaction, DNA replication would not proceed. The DNA polymerase would have no starting point to add nucleotides, and the synthesis of new DNA strands would not occur.