Biochemistry help!

[tennis123221]

My professor offered us an extra credit question. He said it would be difficult and might not even be worth doing...any help with this question would be great! Here it is...

 

Why does the cell synthesize dUTP in order to synthesize TTP when dUTP can be incorporated into and damage DNA?

 

Here are some points to consider:

 

1. There is an alternate pathway in which dCDP is converted to dCMP then dUMP then TTP in which case dUTP could be avoided

2. Why isn't there a similar pathway for dUDP to dUMP to TTP?

3.Synthesis of dUTP may be needed by the cell. In what way?

4. What is the function of dUTPase and what does that provide beyond reducing the concentration of dUTP?

5. What happens in cells deficient in dUTPase in which dUTP may be expected to reach elevated levels?

Thank you so much!

Edited April 7, 2012 by tennis123221

[Xittenn]

Orotic Aciduria!

[tennis123221]

Thanks for the response! But what is that?