One function of the two metal cations that are required by DNA polymerases is
A) to stabilize the negative charge of the transition state.
B) to bind ATP.
C) to complex with a Tyr residue in the active site.
D) to cleave improperly matched bases
E) None of the answers is correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

DNA polymerases require two metal cations (usually Mg2+ or Zn2+) for their activity. One of the primary roles of these metal ions is to stabilize the negative charge on the DNA backbone and the negative charge of the transition state during the catalysis of the phosphodiester bond formation. This stabilization is crucial for the proper function of the enzyme during DNA replication.

One Function of the Two Metal Cations That Are Required