What is the primary function of DNA polymerase in DNA synthesis?

DNA polymerase's primary function in DNA synthesis is to synthesize DNA strands. During the process of DNA replication, DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand based on the template strand. It follows base pairing rules where adenine pairs with thymine and cytosine pairs with guanine, ensuring that the new strand is complementary to the template strand.

This enzyme plays a crucial role during both leading and lagging strand synthesis. On the leading strand, it continuously adds nucleotides, while on the lagging strand, it synthesizes short fragments known as Okazaki fragments. Although DNA polymerase is involved in joining these fragments together later in the process, its main task is the actual synthesis of new DNA. By catalyzing the formation of the phosphodiester bonds between nucleotides, DNA polymerase is vital for creating the new strands that ensure the accurate transmission of genetic information during cell division.