10. DNA replication

What happens in DNA replication simply?

DNA is copied

When does replication occur?

Interphase

What is the first thing that happens?

DNA helicase (enzyme) breaks H bonds holding base pairs so the 2 halves of DNA separate -> DNA unwinds

Describe DNA helicase?

An enzyme which can break H bonds at any point along DNA

What occurs after DNA unwinds?

DNA polymerase catalyses complimentary free nucleotides to original strand of DNA which was exposed

What does the chain act as when DNA polymerase is catalysing?

Acts as template

What does this process result in?

Formation of 2 identical DNA molecules -> Each made of 1 newly synthesised chain and 1 original chain