DNA, the Molecule of Heredity - Part 2: DNA Replication, Storage & Mutations

These flashcards cover key terms related to DNA replication, storage, and mutations, including definitions and explanations.

DNA Replication

The process by which DNA makes a copy of itself before cell division.

Replication Fork

The Y-shaped region where the DNA double helix separates during replication.

Semiconservative Replication

The method of DNA replication in which each new DNA molecule contains one original strand and one new strand.

DNA Polymerase

An enzyme that synthesizes new DNA strands by adding nucleotides to a growing chain.

Leading Strand

The strand of DNA that is replicated continuously in the same direction as the replication fork.

Lagging Strand

The strand of DNA that is replicated discontinuously away from the replication fork, formed in Okazaki fragments.

Okazaki Fragments

Short sequences of DNA nucleotides synthesized discontinuously on the lagging strand during DNA replication.

Primase

An enzyme that synthesizes short RNA primers necessary for DNA replication.

Telomeres

Repeated DNA sequences at the end of chromosomes that protect genetic information during replication.

Nucleases

Enzymes that remove damaged DNA or RNA and are involved in DNA repair.

Point Mutation

A mutation affecting a single nucleotide in the DNA sequence.

Inversion

A mutation where a segment of DNA is reversed end to end.

Translocation

A mutation where a segment of DNA breaks off and attaches to a different chromosome.

Germ-line Mutation

A mutation occurring in gametes that can be passed on to offspring.

Somatic Mutation

A mutation occurring in body cells that is not inherited by offspring.

DNA Storage

DNA is stored as chromatin fibers, with DNA wrapped around histone proteins to form nucleosomes.