Question

The function of the beta subunit is to prevent DNA polymerase III from dissociating from the template DNA strand while still allowing the polymerase to slide along DNA as replication progresses. Given this function, the alpha helices in the beta subunit are The function of the beta subunit is to prevent DNA polymerase III from dissociating from the template DNA strand while still allowing the polymerase to slide along DNA as replication progresses. Given this function, the alpha helices in the beta subunit are:

a. located on the inner surface and oriented perpendicular to the minor and major grooves of DNA.
b. located on the inner surface and oriented parallel to the minor and major grooves of DNA.
c. located on the outer surface and do not interact with DNA.

Answer 1

a. located on the inner surface and oriented perpendicular to the minor and major grooves of DNA.

Step-by-step explanation:

The beta subunit of the Polymerase III is a ring-shaped clamp that embraces DNA in a central 35-angstrom (A) hole and plays an important role in the processivity of the enzyme during DNA replication. The beta subunit of the Polymerase III is a homodimer composed of two monomers (each of 366 amino acids), where each monomer provides one half of the ring-shaped clamp. In the beta dimer, this hole is sufficiently large to accommodate the double helix of DNA.