what is a function of dna polymerase?

During DNA replication, DNA Polymerase matches up the pairs of nitrogenous bases, prepared by the RNA primer (made by the enzyme RNA Primase)to create a new segment of DNA. They are matched to the bases on the parent strand. This occurs on both the leading strand and the lagging strand of replication.

After that, DNA Ligase, another enzyme, links (or "glues") the bases together. DNA polymerase only mathces the bases, it does not link them.

The function of DNA polymerase is to synthesize new DNA strands by adding nucleotides during DNA replication. DNA polymerase plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy of DNA replication, as it is responsible for copying the existing DNA template into two identical daughter strands.

To understand how DNA polymerase functions, let's break it down step by step:

1. Binding: DNA polymerase recognizes and binds to specific sites on the DNA molecule called "origins of replication." These regions indicate where the DNA replication will initiate.

2. Unwinding: DNA helicase, a separate enzyme, unwinds and separates the DNA double helix, exposing the two individual DNA strands.

3. Priming: DNA polymerase requires a short RNA primer to initiate DNA synthesis. Another enzyme called primase synthesizes the RNA primer that acts as a starting point for DNA synthesis.

4. Elongation: The DNA polymerase starts adding nucleotides to the RNA primer. It matches the complementary nucleotides present on the template strand of DNA. For example, if the template strand has an "A," the DNA polymerase will add a complementary "T" nucleotide, and so on (A pairs with T, and C pairs with G).

5. Proofreading: DNA polymerase possesses a proofreading activity. As it adds nucleotides, it checks for any errors or mismatched base pairs. If an error is found, it backtracks, removes the incorrect nucleotide, and replaces it with the correct one to maintain the accuracy of the DNA sequence.

6. Continuity: DNA polymerase proceeds along the DNA template strand, continuously adding nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction (from one end of the new strand to the other).

7. Completion: Once the DNA polymerase reaches the end of the DNA molecule or encounters another DNA polymerase, it detaches from the template strand, and two new identical DNA strands are formed.

In summary, DNA polymerase functions as the primary enzyme responsible for DNA replication, ensuring the accurate synthesis of new DNA strands.