The reverse reaction of nucleic acid synthesis almost never happens. What prevents it?
A)The enzyme does not work in reverse.
B)Polynucleotides are too stable to depolymerize.
C)H bonds holding the strands together are too strong.
D)Nucleic acid synthesis is coupled to the highly exergonic pyrophosphate hydrolysis.
E)There is a large uptake of free energy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nucleic acid synthesis is coupled to the highly exergonic pyrophosphate hydrolysis, which releases a large amount of energy. This makes the reverse reaction energetically unfavorable and prevents it from occurring under normal conditions. Additionally, the enzyme responsible for nucleic acid synthesis only works in one direction, towards synthesis and not depolymerization. While polynucleotides and H bonds do provide stability to nucleic acids, it is primarily the coupling with pyrophosphate hydrolysis that prevents the reverse reaction.

The Reverse Reaction of Nucleic Acid Synthesis Almost Never Happens