Enzyme recombinase has a significant role during the gamete formation. In which phase is it active?

Options

A. prophase - I
B. prophase - II
C. metaphase - I
D. anaphase - II

Answer

To determine the phase during which the enzyme recombinase is active in gamete formation, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Gamete Formation**: Gamete formation occurs through a process called meiosis, which consists of two main stages: meiosis I and meiosis II.

2. **Identifying the Role of Recombinase**: The enzyme recombinase is involved in the process of genetic recombination, which is crucial for increasing genetic diversity in gametes.

3. **Recognizing the Phases of Meiosis**: Meiosis I is divided into several phases: prophase I, metaphase I, anaphase I, and telophase I. Meiosis II also has similar phases: prophase II, metaphase II, anaphase II, and telophase II.

4. **Focusing on Prophase I**: During prophase I of meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through a process known as crossing over. This is where recombinase is particularly active.

5. **Formation of Tetrads**: In prophase I, homologous chromosomes come together to form structures known as tetrads (which consist of four chromatids). The recombinase enzyme facilitates the recombination of genetic material between non-sister chromatids.

6. **Conclusion**: Since the activity of the recombinase enzyme is crucial during the formation of tetrads and the exchange of genetic material, we conclude that recombinase is active during prophase I of meiosis.

### Final Answer:
The enzyme recombinase is active during **prophase I** of meiosis.

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