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DNA polymerase synthesises new DNA strand in the:
A5'→3' direction, requiring a free 3'-OH on the primer
B3'→5' direction
CEither direction, depending on substrate
D5'→3' on leading strand, 3'→5' on lagging strand
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: A. 5'→3' direction, requiring a free 3'-OH on the primer
DNA polymerase exclusively adds nucleotides to the 3'-OH of the primer/growing strand, so synthesis is always 5'→3'. This unidirectionality forces leading-strand continuity and lagging-strand discontinuity (Okazaki fragments).
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