Exploring DNA Replication Concepts

The video explains DNA replication, focusing on the S phase of the cell cycle. It describes how DNA strands separate, the role of enzymes like helicase and polymerase, and the semiconservative nature of replication. The video also covers error checking mechanisms and the potential for mutations, emphasizing the importance of proofreading to prevent diseases like cancer.

What is the primary purpose of DNA replication?

• To produce proteins

• To repair damaged DNA

• To copy DNA before cell division

• To create new cells

During which phase of the cell cycle does DNA replication occur?

• M phase

• S phase

• G2 phase

• G1 phase

What does the term 'semiconservative' mean in the context of DNA replication?

• Each new DNA molecule has one old and one new strand

• DNA replication is error-free

• DNA is replicated in a conservative manner

• Both strands of DNA are new

Which enzyme is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix?

• DNA helicase

• RNA polymerase

• Ligase

• DNA polymerase

What is the role of DNA polymerase during DNA replication?

• Unwinding the DNA double helix

• Adding nucleotides to the template strand

• Breaking hydrogen bonds

• Forming the replication fork

What is the replication fork?

• The enzyme that adds nucleotides

• The point where DNA replication starts

• The Y-shaped region where the DNA is split into two strands

• The end of the DNA molecule

What ensures that the correct nucleotides are added during DNA replication?

• Proofreading by DNA polymerase

• RNA polymerase

• DNA helicase

• Ligase

What can result from an unrepaired mutation during DNA replication?

• Enhanced DNA stability

• Improved protein function

• Increased cell division

• Cancer

What happens if a mistake is detected during DNA replication?

• The cell undergoes apoptosis

• The DNA strand is discarded

• The incorrect nucleotide is replaced

• The cell continues to divide

What is the purpose of checkpoints in the cell cycle?

• To speed up DNA replication

• To initiate cell division

• To repair damaged proteins

• To ensure DNA replication occurs correctly