**Core Concept**
Recombinant DNA research involves various techniques to manipulate DNA sequences, including homopolymer tailing. This process involves adding homopolymer tails to the 3' end of DNA molecules to facilitate ligation. The enzyme responsible for this process is crucial for creating recombinant DNA molecules.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The enzyme used in homopolymer tailing is DNA Polymerase I, specifically its 5' to 3' exonuclease activity. This enzyme removes nucleotides from the 5' end of a DNA fragment, creating a 3' overhang that can be extended with homopolymer tails. The enzyme's 3' to 5' exonuclease activity is also involved in proofreading and editing DNA. In the context of homopolymer tailing, the 5' to 3' exonuclease activity is essential for creating the 3' overhang.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the correct enzyme used in homopolymer tailing. While DNA Polymerase I is involved in DNA replication and repair, it is not the primary enzyme used for homopolymer tailing.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not directly involved in homopolymer tailing. DNA Ligase is an enzyme that seals gaps between DNA fragments, but it is not responsible for creating homopolymer tails.
* **Option D:** This option is incorrect because it is not a specific enzyme used in homopolymer tailing. Restriction endonucleases are enzymes that cleave DNA at specific recognition sites, but they are not involved in creating homopolymer tails.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The 5' to 3' exonuclease activity of DNA Polymerase I is essential for creating 3' overhangs in DNA fragments, which can then be extended with homopolymer tails. This process is critical in recombinant DNA research for creating ligatable ends.
**Correct Answer:** C. DNA Polymerase I.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.