DNA Replication

These flashcards cover the key vocabulary and concepts related to DNA replication, including important enzymes, processes, and structural features.

DNA Replication

The process by which a cell duplicates its DNA before division.

Semiconservative Replication

The method of DNA replication in which each new DNA molecule consists of one parental strand and one new daughter strand.

Helicase

An enzyme that unwinds and separates the two strands of DNA during replication.

Okazaki Fragments

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

DNA Polymerase III

The main enzyme that adds nucleotides to a growing DNA strand during replication.

DnaA proteins

Proteins that bind to DnaA boxes to initiate DNA strand separation.

3' End

The end of a nucleic acid strand that terminates with a hydroxyl group (-OH). It is the site where new nucleotides are added.

Origin of Replication (OriC)

The specific location on the DNA where replication begins.

DNA Ligase

An enzyme that joins Okazaki fragments together by forming phosphodiester bonds.

Telomeres

Repeat sequences at the ends of chromosomes that protect against degradation and prevent shortening during replication.

Flap Endonuclease

Enzyme that removes RNA primers from the Okazaki fragments during DNA replication.

Gyrase

An enzyme that alleviates supercoiling ahead of the replication fork.