Crossing over is also an enzyme mediated process and the enzyme involved is called

Options

A. Recombinase
B. Endonuclease
C. Polymerase
D. Ligases

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Crossing Over**:
- Crossing over is a process that occurs during meiosis where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material. This process increases genetic diversity in gametes.

2. **Location of Crossing Over**:
- Crossing over specifically occurs during the pachytene stage of prophase I of meiosis. At this stage, homologous chromosomes are closely aligned and can exchange segments.

3. **Role of Enzymes in Crossing Over**:
- The process of crossing over involves breaking and rejoining DNA strands. This is where enzymes come into play.

4. **Identifying the Correct Enzyme**:
- The question asks for the enzyme involved in the crossing over process. The options given are recombinase, endonuclease, polymerase, and ligase.

5. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Recombinase**: This enzyme facilitates the recombination of DNA strands during crossing over.
- **Endonuclease**: This enzyme cuts DNA strands but is not directly responsible for the recombination process.
- **Polymerase**: This enzyme synthesizes DNA but does not play a direct role in crossing over.
- **Ligase**: This enzyme joins DNA strands together but is not the primary enzyme responsible for the crossing over process.

6. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **recombinase**, as it is the enzyme that mediates the process of crossing over by facilitating the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes.

**Final Answer**: The enzyme involved in crossing over is called **recombinase**.

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