DNA Replication and the Human Genome Overview

uta biol 1441 dna replication

Semiconservative replication

Each new DNA strand contains one original strand.

Origins of replication

Sites where DNA replication begins.

Replication bubbles

Spaces formed as DNA strands separate.

Replication forks

Edges of replication bubbles where DNA unwinds.

Nucleotide

Building blocks of DNA, composed of sugar, phosphate, base.

Phosphodiester bond

Links nucleotides in the DNA backbone.

Hydrogen bonds

Connect complementary nitrogenous bases in DNA.

Leading strand

Synthesized continuously towards the replication fork.

Lagging strand

Synthesized discontinuously in Okazaki fragments.

DNA Polymerase III

Enzyme that synthesizes new DNA strands.

Nucleotide excision enzymes

Repair enzymes that correct DNA errors.

Okazaki fragments

Short DNA segments on the lagging strand.

3' end

Has a hydroxyl group, where nucleotides are added.

5' end

Has a phosphate group, starting point for synthesis.

Antiparallel strands

Strands run in opposite directions in DNA.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)

Molecule carrying genetic instructions for life.

Human genome

Complete set of DNA in human cells.

Chromosomes

Structures containing DNA coiled around proteins.

Autosomes

Chromosomes regulating general body functions.

Sex chromosomes

Chromosomes determining sex and related traits.

DNA helicase

Enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix.

Topoisomerase

Relieves strain ahead of the replication fork.

RNA primer

Short RNA segment initiating DNA synthesis.

Primase

Enzyme that synthesizes RNA primers.

Template strand

Original DNA strand used for replication.

Complementary strand

New DNA strand formed based on template.

Karyotype

Visual representation of an organism's chromosomes.

DNA proofreading

Process ensuring accuracy during DNA replication.