A Level Biology Practice Exam

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Which function is NOT associated with the role of DNA helicase?

catalyzing the unwinding of DNA
separating DNA strands
repairing damaged DNA
assisting in DNA replication

The correct answer is: repairing damaged DNA

The function of DNA helicase is primarily to facilitate the unwinding and separation of the double-stranded DNA during processes such as replication. It does this by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the base pairs, allowing the two strands to separate and become templates for replication. The role of DNA helicase is crucial in DNA replication (making new copies of DNA) and it assists in processes that require the separation of strands, like transcription. However, while helicase is involved in the initial steps that can lead to repair processes, DNA repair itself is typically the function of different types of enzymes such as DNA polymerases and ligases, which have specific roles in identifying and correcting alterations in the DNA sequence. Therefore, since repairing damaged DNA is not a direct function of DNA helicase, this makes it the correct answer to the question posed.