DNA Replication

Front

What is 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

What are nucleotides?

Back

Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA, consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

Front

What is the role of DNA polymerase?

Back

DNA polymerase is an enzyme that adds nucleotides to a growing DNA strand during replication and also proofreads the new DNA to ensure accuracy.

Front

What are the base pairing rules in DNA?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of origins of replication?

Back

Origins of replication are specific locations on the DNA molecule where replication begins, allowing the DNA to be copied efficiently.

Front

What is the function of helicase in DNA replication?

Back

Helicase is an enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix, separating the two strands to allow replication to occur.

Front

What is the difference between leading and lagging strands?

Back

The leading strand is synthesized continuously in the direction of the replication fork, while the lagging strand is synthesized in short segments (Okazaki fragments) away from the fork.

Front

What are Okazaki fragments?

Back

Okazaki fragments are short sequences of DNA nucleotides synthesized on the lagging strand during DNA replication.

Front

What is the role of primase in DNA replication?

Back

Primase is an enzyme that synthesizes a short RNA primer, which is necessary for DNA polymerase to start adding nucleotides.

Front

What is the function of ligase in DNA replication?

Back

Ligase is an enzyme that joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand by forming covalent bonds between them.