dna replication

DNA Replication

The process of producing exact copies of DNA with identical base sequences, essential for reproduction, growth, and tissue replacement.

Semi-Conservative Replication

A method of DNA replication where each new DNA molecule consists of one original strand and one newly synthesized strand.

Helicase

An enzyme that unwinds DNA by breaking the hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs during replication.

DNA Polymerase

An enzyme that adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand during replication, following the rules of complementary base pairing.

DNA Primase

An enzyme that synthesizes RNA primers to provide starting points for DNA polymerase in replication.

Okazaki Fragments

Short fragments of DNA synthesized on the lagging strand during DNA replication, requiring multiple RNA primers.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A technique used to amplify small segments of DNA, enabling analysis and research.

Gel Electrophoresis

A method for separating DNA fragments based on size by applying an electric current to a gel containing the DNA.

Short Tandem Repeats (STRs)

Repeated DNA sequences between 1-6 base pairs in length, used in forensic DNA profiling and paternity tests due to their variability.

Directionality of DNA Polymerases

DNA polymerases add nucleotides in a 5' to 3' direction, which is crucial for the process of DNA replication.

DNA Proofreading

The mechanism by which DNA polymerase III checks and corrects mismatched nucleotides after they are added to the growing DNA strand.

DNA Ligase

An enzyme that seals gaps between Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand to create a continuous DNA molecule.

Complementary Base Pairing

The specific pairing of nucleotide bases where adenine pairs with thymine and cytosine pairs with guanine, ensuring accurate replication.

Taq Polymerase

A thermophilic DNA polymerase commonly used in PCR due to its ability to withstand high temperatures.

Denaturation (PCR)

The first step in PCR; involves heating the DNA sample to separate the strands.

Annealing (PCR)

The second step in PCR; cooling the sample to allow RNA primers to attach to the single-stranded DNA.

Synthesis (PCR)

The third step of PCR; where Taq polymerase adds nucleotides to extend the new DNA strands.