Helicases and topoisomerases both play roles in which cellular process?

Helicases and topoisomerases are crucial enzymes involved in DNA replication, making the correct answer DNA replication.

Helicases function by unwinding the DNA double helix, separating the two strands so that they can serve as templates for the synthesis of new DNA strands. This unwinding is essential because the DNA must be in a single-stranded form to allow the DNA polymerase enzyme to synthesize a complementary strand.

Topoisomerases, on the other hand, address the torsional strain created ahead of the DNA replication fork as the helicase unwinds the DNA. They introduce temporary cuts in the DNA strands to relieve this tension, allowing replication to proceed smoothly without the DNA becoming overly twisted or tangled.

Together, helicases and topoisomerases ensure that DNA can be accurately and efficiently replicated. Understanding their specific roles highlights the intricate processes involved in maintaining genetic continuity during cell division and subsequent cellular functions.