Question

A mutation results in the production of much less DNA ligase than normal. What would be a likely consequence?

DNA replication would not be able to occur at all.

DNA replication would occur, but the leading strand would be composed of many small fragments.

DNA replication of both strands would occur slowly because the unwinding of DNA would be impaired.

DNA replication would occur, but replication of the lagging strand would take much longer than normal.

Answer 1

Answer: DNA replication wouldstill occur, but replication of the lagging strand would take much longer than normal.

DNA ligase is the enzyme that binds the Okazaki fragments in the lagging strand. Since the mutation resulted in much less DNA ligase, there would be less of this enzymes working for the replication process. Doesn't mean it can't happen, but it will be slower.