What type of DNA does recBC nuclease degrade?

RecBC nuclease is an enzyme complex that plays a crucial role in DNA repair and recombination processes in bacterial cells. One of its key functions is to degrade DNA. RecBC nuclease is specifically designed to act on both single-stranded and double-stranded DNA.

The mechanism of action involves recognizing DNA substrates and unwinding double-stranded DNA, making it accessible for degradation. Once the double-stranded DNA is unwound, RecBC can then process both the single-stranded regions and any remaining double-stranded segments. This dual capability makes RecBC nuclease particularly effective in repairing damaged DNA and facilitating genetic recombination.

This understanding highlights the enzyme’s broad substrate specificity, which is essential for maintaining genomic integrity through various cellular processes. Other options that specify only one form of nucleic acid, such as RNA or only one type of DNA strand, do not accurately capture the complete function of RecBC nuclease.