Multiple Choice
Some transposons encode for a protein.
4. DNA, Chromosomes, and Genomes
Transposons and Viruses
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What is the name of the enzyme responsible for allowing the transposon to jump within the genome?
A
Reverse Transcriptase
B
Transposase
C
Transposonase
D
Integrase
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of transposons: Transposons, also known as 'jumping genes', are sequences of DNA that can move or 'transpose' themselves to new positions within the genome of a single cell.
Identify the enzyme responsible for transposition: The enzyme that facilitates the movement of transposons is called 'transposase'. This enzyme cuts the transposon out of its original location and inserts it into a new location in the genome.
Differentiate between similar enzymes: Reverse transcriptase is involved in the process of reverse transcription, typically in retroviruses, and is not responsible for transposition. Integrase is an enzyme that integrates viral DNA into the host genome, but it is not involved in the movement of transposons.
Clarify the function of transposase: Transposase recognizes specific DNA sequences at the ends of the transposon and catalyzes the cut-and-paste mechanism that allows the transposon to move.
Conclude with the correct enzyme: Based on the function and role in the genome, the enzyme responsible for allowing the transposon to jump within the genome is 'transposase'.
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