DNA Replication Models and Polymerization

These flashcards cover key concepts related to DNA replication models, polymerization processes, and the enzymes involved in DNA synthesis.

Conservative model

A model of DNA replication where the original parental dsDNA is maintained after division.

Semi-conservative model

A model of DNA replication in which each new dsDNA duplex is comprised of separate parent and daughter strands.

Dispersive model

A model of DNA replication involving an equal distribution of new DNA among parent and daughter strands.

Meselson and Stahl experiment

The 1958 experiment that provided evidence for the semi-conservative model of DNA replication.

DNA polymerization process

A condensation reaction where hydrolysis of phosphate bonds provides energy required for nucleic acid synthesis.

DNA polymerase

An enzyme that synthesizes a new DNA strand in the 5' to 3' direction and requires a template and a free 3' end.

Primase (RNA polymerase)

An enzyme that synthesizes RNA primers in the 5' to 3' direction without requiring a free 3' end.

DNA ligase

An enzyme that links large DNA fragments to generate a complete daughter strand.

Leading strand

The DNA strand that is synthesized as a single, long polymer during replication.

Lagging strand

The DNA strand that is synthesized in short segments called Okazaki fragments during replication.

Okazaki fragments

Smaller fragments (<2000 bp) synthesized on the lagging strand during DNA replication.

Bidirectional synthesis

A process in which DNA replication occurs in two directions at each replication fork.

Telomeres

The ends of eukaryotic chromosomes that are not fully replicated during DNA replication.

High fidelity of DNA replication

The characteristic of DNA replication that results in a remarkably error-free complete DNA polymer.