Question

What do you think is the evolutionary significance of DNA polymerase? What do you think would happen if there was a genetic mutation on the genes encoding for DNA polymerase?

Answer 1

Answer:

Evolutionary significance of DNA polymerase: DNA polymerase is a key enzyme of DNA replication. During replication, it duplicates the DNA strand which then moves to next-generation, thus, continuing the life generations after generation.

If there will be a mutation in DNA polymerase, the nature of mutation would define the consequences. If it is a NEUTRAL mutation, it would not affect the action of DNA polymerase. However, if it a POSITIVE mutation, it may improve the function of DNA polymerase. On the other hand, if the mutation is NEGATIVE, it can be very harmful to living organisms because negative mutation can impair the function of enzyme thus stopping the DNA replication. This would most likely seize the life on Earth.