Question

What is the main function of DNA helicase in DNA replication?

Answer 1

Hint: DNA replication is the system through which the DNA divides. It is a very essential method that leads to inheritance. In this process, the double-stranded DNA helix separates into two accompanied via the copying of the strand. This is brought about with the help of the enzymes.

Complete answer:
DNA is a very complicated macromolecule that can be found in the chromosome. The DNA is a double-stranded helix. In this, the two strands are complementary and are joined through the hydrogen bond between the complementary bases existing in the strands.

The replication of DNA starts with the setting apart or breaking of the bonds that causes the conversion of double strands into the single strand. This work is finished through the enzyme helicase which breaks the hydrogen bond between the two strands and unwinds the DNA. This varieties the Y shaped replication fork. Now the two strands act as a template for the additional enzymatic movements like the binding of DNA polymerase and the primer and the making of a new strand.

The helicase enzyme separates the two strands till the replication process is complete. So we can say the helicases are the enzymes that assist in unzipping the DNA helix.

Note:
There are around ninety five kinds of helicases currently in human beings. The different functions of helicase are- They are required in transcription, the helicases assist in the restoration of the DNA, Helicase is additionally essential for recombination and bacterial conjugation. The mutation in the gene that encodes for helicase leads to genetic diseases.