DNA replication vs Transcription

• DNA replication: The process of copying the entire DNA molecule to produce two identical copies, occurring during the S phase of the cell cycle.

• Transcription: The process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template, which takes place in the nucleus and is the first step in gene expression.

DNA Replication:

• makes new, identical double stranded DNA molecule

• DNA polymerase

• happens during S phase

• uses thymine

• needs primer RNA

• semiconservative

• replicates entire genome

• enzymes: ligase, primase, DNA polymerase

• single stranded binding protein

• lagging strand

Transcription:

• Single strand of RNA

• RNA polymerase is required

• promoter needed for RNA initiation complex (no primer needed)

• uses uracil

• happens in G phases

• lacks proofreading activity

• TATA box

Similarities:

• location: nucleus in eukaryotes, cytoplasm in prokaryotes

• DNA template

• helicase

• 5’ to 3’

• has complementary base pairing