You identify a cell in which DNA polymerase III is functional, but it seems to exhibit extremely low processivity. This is likely a defect in what structure?
A) the topoisomerase enzyme
B) the pol III holoenzyme
C) the sliding clamp
D) the clamp loader
E) the t proteins

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sliding clamp is crucial for the high processivity of DNA polymerase III, as it encircles the DNA and tethers the polymerase to the template, allowing it to synthesize long stretches of DNA without dissociating. A defect in the sliding clamp would result in reduced processivity.

You Identify a Cell in Which DNA Polymerase III Is