What is the role of RNA primer during DNA replication?
Correct answer: A. Provides a 3′-OH end for dNTP addition
DNA polymerase cannot catalyze the formation of a phosphodiester bond between two free dNTPs; it can only catalyze the addition of dNTPs to the 3′-OH end of a nucleotide fragment. The primase, which is an RNA polymerase, provides a short RNA primer that offers a 3′-OH end for DNA synthesis. In the presence of DNA polymerase, dNTPs are added one by one to form the DNA daughter strand. B: Extending Okazaki fragments is done by DNA pol I. C: Primase participates in forming the primosome; after catalyzing primer formation, it enters the phase of DNA daughter strand elongation. D: The action of assisting helicase is performed by DnaC protein.