DNA Replication and Mutations

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering essential terms related to DNA replication and genetic mutations.

DNA Replication

The process by which a cell makes an exact copy of its DNA before cell division.

DNA Helicase

An enzyme that breaks hydrogen bonds between base pairs, separating the two strands of DNA during replication.

Semi-conservative replication

The method of DNA duplication where one original strand and one newly synthesized strand are produced.

DNA Polymerase

An enzyme that joins free DNA nucleotides to form a new DNA strand using the original strand as a template.

Free Nucleotides

DNA nucleotides present in the nucleus that pair with complementary bases on the template strand during replication.

Okazaki Fragments

Short segments of DNA synthesized on the lagging strand during DNA replication.

Ligation

The process where DNA ligase seals the sugar-phosphate backbone, connecting Okazaki fragments into a continuous strand.

Genetic Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to altered protein structure and function.

Point Mutation

A mutation resulting in a change in a single nucleotide in the DNA sequence.

Frameshift Mutation

A mutation caused by insertion or deletion of nucleotides, shifting the reading frame of mRNA and resulting in incorrect amino acid sequences.