Question

List the three constraints that DNA Polymerase has when synthesizing new DNA?

Answer 1

DNA Polymerase has three main constraints when synthesizing DNA: it can only add nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction, it requires a primer with a free 3'-OH group, and the process is energy-dependent.

Step-by-step explanation:

DNA Polymerase, which plays a pivotal role in DNA synthesis, has three key constraints during the replication process. These constraints include:

1. Directionality: DNA Polymerase can only add nucleotides in a 5' to 3' direction. This means that a new DNA strand can only be extended one way, adding nucleotides to the 3' end of the strand.
2. Requirement for a Primer: DNA Polymerase requires a free 3'-OH group to initiate the synthesis. Since DNA polymerases cannot start from scratch, they rely on a short RNA primer synthesized by primase to provide the necessary 3'-OH group.
3. Energy Dependent Process: The addition of each nucleotide requires energy, derived from the nucleotide triphosphates (ATP, GTP, TTP, and CTP). This energy release allows for the formation of a phosphodiester bond between the incoming nucleotide and the growing DNA chain.

These constraints ensure that DNA Polymerase works accurately and with high fidelity during DNA replication.