Question: 114: In meiosis, crossing over and exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes are catalyzed by the enzyme.
(1) Phosphorylase
(2) Recombinase
(3) Transferase
(4) Polymerase
Answer: Option (2)
Explanation:
Crossing over is the process in which exchange of genetic material occurs between homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis.
This exchange takes place between non-sister chromatids at specific points called chiasmata.
The enzyme responsible for catalyzing the breaking and rejoining of DNA strands during crossing over is recombinase.
Recombinase facilitates genetic recombination by enabling precise exchange of DNA segments between homologous chromosomes.
Phosphorylase is involved in carbohydrate metabolism and has no role in genetic recombination.
Transferase enzymes catalyze transfer of functional groups but are not involved in crossing over.
Polymerase is responsible for DNA synthesis during replication, not recombination.
Therefore, the correct answer is recombinase.