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Why are RNA primers needed?

Updated: 8/9/2023
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7y ago

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RNA primers are used to initiate the DNA replication at the template strand. DNA molecules require a free 3' OH, to which it could add the nucleotides. This free 3' OH is provided by the RNA primer. So prior to the synthesis of DNA a short fragment of RNA is synthesized that is later excised and filled with DNA molecules.

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12y ago
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12y ago

To Sum it Up:RNA primer (the middle-man) attaches to the template; free DNA bases then attach to the primer; the DNA can then replicate; DNA anneals; RNA primer is then kicked off when all is said and done.

In Detail: I must say that I am assuming that you are somewhat familiar with the process; therefore, if I am mistaken, please ask any questions you have regarding my answer. That being said...RNA primer is vital for the replication process of DNA to even occur. After the topoisomerase attaches to the DNA, and the replication fork is formed, the Leading Strand replicates with no problem because replication is occurring in the 5' to 3' direction (Remember: DNA can replicate in the 5' to 3' direction ONLY.) LAGGING STRAND: In order for the template of the lagging strand to be replicated, a primase (enzyme) builds up what is called the RNA primer along the template. Once in place, DNA polymerases (enzyme) are able to use the 3'-OH group of the RNA primer to build on: (If you are familiar with the molecular structure of DNA...the 3'-OH group is located at the "end" of the primer & it acts in place of the "-OH" group that is located in the "sugar" part of the "Phosphate-Sugar" backbone). This allows the replication process to occur in the 5' to 3' direction! Once the process is completed, a different DNA Polymerase (different Polymerase/mechanism is used in eukaryotes vs. prokaryotes) removes the RNA primer.

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9y ago

RNA primer acts as a start point to make DNA complimentary strand by DNA polymerase. These RNA primers are usually synthesized by specialized enzymes known as primases. Once DNA synthesis is done, the RNA primer is removed by RNAse.

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13y ago

forms an RNA primer strand required by the okazaki fragments.

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14y ago

RNA primers are needed as a starting point for DNA polymerase, which adds bases onto the template strand. DNA polymerase cannot begin replication without starting from the 3' end of a primer.

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12y ago

rna primer used in during dna replication and dna ligase joint the okazaki fregments

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13y ago

In PCR, what is the function of the primers?

They indicate where DNA synthesis should start.

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Q: Why are RNA primers needed?
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Related questions

The short sections of RNA found on both the leading and laggings strands of DNA are called?

RNA primers.


Why RNA primers are needed during DNA replication and what is their fate?

DNA polymerase cannot begin the synthesis of new DNA.To synthesis a new strand of DNA ,RNA primer is required.The complementary RNA nucleotides,that are added opposite to the single strand of parent DNA are the RNA primer.


What is the function of primers?

RNA primers are used to initiate the DNA replication at the template strand. DNA molecules require a free 3' OH, to which it could add the nucleotides. This free 3' OH is provided by the RNA primer. So prior to the synthesis of DNA a short fragment of RNA is synthesized that is later excised and filled with DNA molecules.


Is RNA is usually single-stranded.?

During transcription, DNA is used as a template to make a copy of single-stranded RNA. only one of the two DNA strands is used as a template for RNA synthesis. therefore only one complementary strand of RNA is usually made


What is the primase and its function?

Primase in the DNA-dependent RNA polymerase enzyme that functions in DNA replication by synthesizing the RNA primers which are then extended by DNA polymerase to yield newly synthesized DNA fragments. While being an RNA polymerase, primase is different from the RNA polymerase that functions in the transcription of DNA.


What does RNA do in the body?

Different types of RNA have different functions but overall RNA's function (or job) is to carry out DNA replication.


What other molecules are needed for DNA to make proteins?

In addition to DNA, messenger RNA, ribosomal RNA, and transfer RNA are needed to make proteins.


What is replicating the lagging strand of DNA that is adding bases in the 3-5 direction utilizes what?

DNA Ligase, RNA primers, and Okazaki Fragments.


What are the five necessary components of DNA synthesis reaction?

DNA polymerases, RNA primers, deoxyribonucleoside 5'-triphosphates (or dNTPs), Mg2+ ions, and a DNA template strand.


What is RNA polymerase and tell its functions?

RNA polymerase is an enzyme that produces RNA. In cells, RNAP is needed for constructing RNA chains from DNA genes as etc


What translates instructions from your DNA into much needed proteins?

RNA. RNA stands for RiboNucleic Acid.


Why is RNA polymerase not free in the cell?

Because they are produced only when needed for RNA replication and are not kept for future use.