RNase H functions as a catalyst by accelerating the cleavage of the phosphodiester bond in the RNA strand of the RNA-DNA hybrid. The enzyme achieves this by coordinating divalent metal ions, usually Mg2+ or Mn2+, which are crucial for its catalytic activity. These metal ions facilitate the nucleophilic attack on the phosphorus atom of the RNA backbone, leading to the cleavage of the RNA strand.
