In the context of DNA replication, what is the substrate that primase uses to synthesize RNA primers?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the substrate that the enzyme primase uses during the process of DNA replication to synthesize RNA primers. Primase is essential for laying down RNA primers, and this question tests understanding of the components involved in this biological process.
Answer
The substrate is the template strand of DNA.
In the context of DNA replication, the substrate that primase uses to synthesize RNA primers is the template strand of DNA.
Answer for screen readers
In the context of DNA replication, the substrate that primase uses to synthesize RNA primers is the template strand of DNA.
More Information
Primase is a type of RNA polymerase that synthesizes RNA primers using the DNA template strand. This is crucial for DNA replication, as DNA polymerases require a primer with a free 3' hydroxyl group to initiate synthesis.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the substrate for primase with that for DNA polymerase. Primase uses a DNA template to create RNA primers, whereas DNA polymerase extends the primer using dNTPs.
Sources
- DNA Primase - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
- Molecular mechanism of DNA replication (article) | Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
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