Correct option is C
Correct Answer: (c)
Explanation: RecA is a multifunctional bacterial protein essential for homologous recombination and DNA repair. It possesses ATPase activity and catalyzes strand exchange between homologous DNA molecules. RecA also exhibits a coprotease function by stimulating the self-cleavage of repressor proteins such as LexA. However, RecA does not have nucleolytic activity and cannot degrade DNA directly.
Information Booster
· RecA is central to homologous recombination in bacteria.
· ATP binding and hydrolysis regulate RecA filament formation on DNA.
· Strand-exchange activity enables pairing and exchange between homologous DNA strands.
· RecA acts as a coprotease in the SOS response by promoting LexA autocleavage.
· DNA degradation is carried out by separate nucleases, not by RecA.
Additional Knowledge
Although RecA is often associated with DNA repair processes, it does not cleave DNA phosphodiester bonds and hence lacks nucleolytic activity. Its so-called proteolytic function is indirect, as RecA facilitates the self-cleavage of regulatory proteins rather than acting as a true protease. This distinction is important for understanding the mechanistic role of RecA in maintaining genomic integrity during stress conditions.
