Which of the following is NOT a function of DNA polymerase?

• A. Adding nucleotides to a growing DNA strand
• B. Proofreading DNA for errors
• C. Transcribing RNA from a DNA template
• D. Building a complementary strand of DNA

Answer: (C)

The correct answer is based on the specific function of DNA polymerase within cellular processes. DNA polymerase is primarily involved in the synthesis of DNA by adding nucleotides to a growing DNA strand, ensuring that the new strand is complementary to the template strand. This enzyme also plays a critical role in proofreading, where it checks for and corrects errors that may occur during DNA replication.

However, transcribing RNA from a DNA template is not a function of DNA polymerase; this function is performed by RNA polymerase. RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA by transcribing the DNA sequence, which is essential for gene expression. DNA polymerase’s role is confined to DNA replication and repair, reinforcing why this choice is identified as NOT a function of DNA polymerase.