RNA primase

Definition

RNA primase is an enzyme that synthesizes a short RNA primer during DNA replication. This primer is essential for DNA polymerase to begin synthesis of the new DNA strand.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. RNA primase initiates the process of DNA synthesis by creating a starting point for DNA polymerase.
2. The RNA primers synthesized by RNA primase are later removed and replaced with DNA.
3. RNA primase works in conjunction with other enzymes, such as helicase and ligase, during DNA replication.
4. In prokaryotes, the RNA primers are generally around 10-12 nucleotides long.
5. Mutation or malfunction of RNA primase can lead to errors in DNA replication, affecting cell division and function.

Review Questions

• What role does RNA primase play in the initiation of DNA replication?
• How does RNA primase interact with other enzymes during the process of DNA replication?
• Why is it important for RNA primers to be replaced with DNA later in the replication process?

Related terms

Helicase:

An enzyme that unwinds the double-stranded DNA helix ahead of the replication fork.

DNA Polymerase:

An enzyme that adds nucleotides to a growing DNA strand using a template strand.

DNA Ligase:

An enzyme that seals nicks and joins fragments of newly synthesized DNA on the lagging strand.