DNA and DNA replication

Front

What is DNA?

Back

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for life. It is composed of two strands that coil around each other to form a double helix.

Front

What are the main components of DNA?

Back

The main components of DNA are nucleotides, which consist of a sugar (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base (adenine, thymine, cytosine, or guanine).

Front

What is the function of DNA replication?

Back

DNA replication is the process by which a cell makes an exact copy of its DNA, ensuring that each new cell receives a complete set of genetic information.

Front

Where does DNA replication occur in eukaryotic cells?

Back

DNA replication occurs in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.

Front

What is the role of helicase in DNA replication?

Back

Helicase is an enzyme that unwinds and separates the two strands of the DNA double helix during replication.

Front

What are the base pairing rules in DNA?

Back

In DNA, adenine pairs with thymine (A-T) and guanine pairs with cytosine (G-C).

Front

What is the significance of the 5' and 3' ends of DNA strands?

Back

The 5' and 3' ends refer to the directionality of the DNA strands. DNA strands are antiparallel, meaning one strand runs 5' to 3' and the other runs 3' to 5'.

Front

What is the function of DNA polymerase?

Back

DNA polymerase is an enzyme that synthesizes new DNA strands by adding nucleotides complementary to the template strand during replication.

Front

What is a mutation?

Back

A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to changes in the structure and function of proteins, potentially affecting an organism's traits.

Front

What is the difference between leading and lagging strands in DNA replication?

Back

The leading strand is synthesized continuously in the same direction as the replication fork, while the lagging strand is synthesized in short segments (Okazaki fragments) in the opposite direction.