Question

What is the primary function of Helicase during DNA replication?

Options

• Unwinds the DNA double helix

• Relieves supercoiling ahead of the fork

• Joins DNA fragments via phosphodiester bonds

• Adds deoxyribonucleotides to the 3′-OH end

Answer 1

Helicase functions to unwind the DNA double helix, separating the two complementary strands to allow the replication machinery access to the template strands.