Deoxycytidyl transferase involved in DNA repair and translesion synthesis (TLS). Transfers a dCMP residue from dCTP to the 3'-end of a DNA primer in a template-dependent reaction. Mediates also the insertion of dTMP or dGMP when the opposite base is G, and, with a low efficiency, dGMP insertions opposite G, T, and C, dAMP insertions opposite G, A, and T, and dTMP insertion opposite A. May assist in the first step in the bypass of abasic lesions by the insertion of a nucleotide opposite the lesion. Required for normal induction of mutations by physical and chemical agents (e.g. UV and gamma ray), mostly via G to T transversions, and of spontaneous mutations in somatic cells. Confers resistance to ultraviolet-B (UV-B) and various DNA cross-linkers (e.g. mitomycin C MMC and cisplatin). Promotes stem growth. Mn(2+) ions. Can also use Mg(2+) ions with a lower efficiency. Monomer. The C-terminal domain is necessary for protein interactions. Reduced UV light- and gamma ray-induced mutation frequency. Slightly sensitive to ultraviolet-B (UV-B) and DNA cross-linkers (e.g. mitomycin C MMC and cisplatin). Lower germination rate. Belongs to the DNA polymerase type-Y family.