Question

a mutation is identified in a single-celled eukaryote called a protist in which dna primase does not assemble rna primers on the lagging strand during dna replication. which of the following statements correctly describes a possible result of this mutation?

○ dna replication will proceed normally.

○ the leading strand will not be replicated normally.

○ the lagging strand will continue to be replicated normally.

○ the lagging strand will not be replicated normally.

Explanation:

DNA primase is crucial for assembling RNA primers on the lagging strand during DNA replication. Without these primers, DNA polymerase cannot initiate synthesis of the lagging strand. The leading strand is synthesized continuously and does not rely on the same primase - dependent process for each segment. So, a mutation that affects primase's function on the lagging strand will disrupt its replication.

Answer:

The lagging strand will not be replicated normally.