DNA polymerases cannot act as primers for replication, yet primase and other RNA polymerases can. Some geneticists have speculated that the inability of DNA polymerase to prime replication is a result of its proofreading function. This hypothesis argues that proofreading is essential for the faithful transmission of genetic information and that because DNA polymerases have evolved the ability to proofread, they cannot prime DNA synthesis. Explain why proofreading and priming functions in the same enzyme might be incompatible.

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
11th Edition
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation
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DNA polymerases cannot act as primers for replication, yet primase
and other RNA polymerases can. Some geneticists have speculated
that the inability of DNA polymerase to prime replication is a result of
its proofreading function. This hypothesis argues that proofreading is
essential for the faithful transmission of genetic information and that
because DNA polymerases have evolved the ability to proofread, they
cannot prime DNA synthesis. Explain why proofreading and priming
functions in the same enzyme might be incompatible.

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