Replication of DNA (Chapter 16)

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to the replication of DNA, including processes and enzymes involved in DNA synthesis.

DNA replication

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

5' to 3' direction

The direction in which new DNA strands are synthesized, from the phosphate group at the 5' end to the hydroxyl group at the 3' end.

Semiconservative replication

The process whereby each new DNA molecule consists of one original strand and one newly synthesized strand.

Okazaki fragments

Short sequences of DNA that are synthesized discontinuously and later joined together by DNA ligase.

DNA polymerase

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

Helicase

An enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix at the replication fork.

Primase

An enzyme that synthesizes short RNA primers to provide a starting point for DNA synthesis.

Leading strand

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

Lagging strand

The DNA strand that is synthesized discontinuously in short sections, opposite to the direction of the replication fork.

Replication fork

The Y-shaped region where the DNA is split into two strands for replication.

Topoisomerase

An enzyme that helps relieve the strain of unwinding DNA by cutting and rejoining the DNA strands.