Which enzyme separates the two strands of DNA?

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman Shamil | Last updated: February 3, 2024

 Question: Which enzyme separates the two strands of DNA?

Answer:

  • DNA helicase is an enzyme that separates the two strands of DNA during processes like DNA replication and transcription.
  • It unwinds the double helix structure of DNA by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the complementary nucleotide bases.
  • As DNA helicase moves, it separates the two DNA strands, creating a replication or transcription bubble where the unwound DNA serves as a template for synthesis.
EnzymeDescriptionFunction
DNA HelicaseEnzymeSeparates the two strands of DNA by breaking hydrogen bonds between nucleotide base pairs
FunctionDNA replication, repair, and transcriptionPlays a crucial role in various DNA metabolic processes, including DNA replication, repair, and transcription
DirectionalityMoves in a 5′ to 3′ direction on one strand and 3′ to 5′ on the other strandUnwinds the DNA strands in opposite directions during replication or transcription
UnwindingSeparates DNA strandsUnwinds the double helix structure, creating a replication or transcription bubble
 
ProcessivityExhibits high processivityCan unwind several base pairs before dissociating from the DNA
Co-factorOften requires accessory proteinsVarious proteins can assist helicase in its activity, including single-stranded DNA-binding proteins (SSBs)
RegulationControlled by regulatory factorsActivity can be modulated by other proteins and factors to ensure proper timing and regulation

Important Questions about Enzymes

  1. Enzymes MCQs
  2. Inhibition in enzymes
  3. Which enzyme digests starch?
  4. Which enzyme digests protein?
  5. which enzyme is present in saliva?
  6. Which enzyme is not present in succus entericus?
  7. Which enzyme breaks down protein in the stomach?
  8. Which enzyme converts fibrinogen to fibrin?
  9. Which enzyme converts glucose into alcohol?
  10. Which enzyme digests fat?
  11. Which enzyme digests milk protein?
  12. Which enzyme is used in PCR?
  13. Which enzyme unzips the DNA double helix?
  14. Which liver enzyme increases with alcohol?
  15. Which enzyme cuts DNA?
  16. Which enzyme catalyzes the first step of glycolysis?
  17. Which enzyme binds DNA fragments together?
  18. Which enzyme transcribes DNA into RNA?
  19. which enzyme adds new nucleotides?
  20. Which enzyme digests cellulose?
  21. Which enzyme separates the two strands of DNA?
  22. Which enzyme converts carbohydrates into glucose?
  23. Which enzyme removes RNA primer?
  24. Which enzymes help in digestion?
  25. Which enzyme works best in acidic conditions?
  26. Which enzyme synthesizes tRNA?
  27. Which enzyme secreted by pancreas?
  28. Which enzyme converts maltose into glucose?
  29. Which vitamins work as coenzyme?