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Topoisomerase

Definition

Topoisomerase is an enzyme that alters the supercoiled form of a DNA molecule. It helps in unwinding the DNA helix by cutting one or both strands, allowing it to unwind and then resealing it.

Analogy

Think of topoisomerase as a skilled hairdresser. If your hair (DNA) gets too tangled (supercoiled), the hairdresser (topoisomerase) can cut some strands, untangle them, and then put them back together so they look neat again.

Related terms

DNA Gyrase: This is a type of topoisomerase that introduces negative supercoils (or relaxes positive supercoils) into DNA.

Helicase: An enzyme that separates DNA strands before replication can occur.

Ligase: An enzyme that connects two fragments of DNA to make a single fragment; it's like the glue for our genetic material.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.