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Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the major groove in DNA?
What is the primary function of the major groove in DNA?
- To provide structural stability to the helix
- To store genetic information
- To expose the edges of the bases for protein binding (correct)
- To create stronger hydrogen bonds
The minor groove is wider and deeper than the major groove.
The minor groove is wider and deeper than the major groove.
False (B)
How many nucleotides are approximately encompassed in a single turn of the DNA helix?
How many nucleotides are approximately encompassed in a single turn of the DNA helix?
ten
What is the primary function of the sliding clamp in DNA synthesis?
What is the primary function of the sliding clamp in DNA synthesis?
Processivity refers to DNA polymerase's ability to frequently detach from DNA during synthesis.
Processivity refers to DNA polymerase's ability to frequently detach from DNA during synthesis.
The major groove of DNA is approximately _____ Å wide.
The major groove of DNA is approximately _____ Å wide.
Match the following grooves with their characteristics:
Match the following grooves with their characteristics:
What shape does the sliding clamp resemble?
What shape does the sliding clamp resemble?
The property of DNA polymerase that maximizes the speed of DNA synthesis is known as __________.
The property of DNA polymerase that maximizes the speed of DNA synthesis is known as __________.
Match the following components with their respective descriptions:
Match the following components with their respective descriptions:
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Study Notes
DNA Polymerase Processivity
- DNA polymerase's ability to bind and repeatedly add nucleotides to the growing daughter strand is called processivity.
- Processivity ensures rapid DNA synthesis, preventing frequent detachment and reattachment.
- The sliding clamp, a protein complex, acts as a doughnut around the DNA, keeping the polymerase anchored.
- The sliding clamp encircles the DNA strand, with the DNA passing through the centre of the clamp, allowing the polymerase to slide along the DNA during synthesis.
DNA Major and Minor Grooves
- The DNA double helix has alternating major and minor grooves, which are a result of the alternating pattern of the sugar-phosphate backbone.
- The directionality of nucleic acids is determined by the 5' and 3' carbons on the ribose ring.
- One full turn of the DNA helix contains ten nucleotides with a major and minor groove.
- The major groove is wider (~22 Å) and more accessible for proteins than the minor groove (~12 Å).
- The major groove provides a wider space for proteins to bind to specific DNA sequences, critical for processes like transcription factor binding.
- The difference in width between the major and minor groove allows for selective interaction with proteins involved in various cellular processes, including replication, transcription, activation, repression, and repair.
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