In a test tube, a particular DNA polymerase has an error rate of 1 mistake in every 106 bases copied.Why is the mutation rate in a cell that uses this DNA polymerase much lower?
A)The polymerase is more careful in replicating regions where genes exist.
B)Repair mechanisms correct errors made by the polymerase.
C)Not all mutations can be detected easily.
D)The DNA polymerase has no proofreading function.
E)Mutations do not occur if mutagens are not present.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Repair mechanisms in cells correct errors made by the DNA polymerase, significantly reducing the mutation rate compared to the error rate of the polymerase alone.

In a Test Tube, a Particular DNA Polymerase Has an Error