Copying process by which a cell duplicates its DNA
The copying process by which a cell duplicates its DNA is known as DNA replication
The copying process by which a cell duplicates its DNA is known as DNA replication. This vital process occurs before a cell divides to ensure that each daughter cell has an identical copy of the genetic information.
DNA replication takes place in multiple stages and involves various proteins and enzymes. Here is a brief overview of the steps involved in DNA replication:
1. Initiation: The replication process starts at specific sites on the DNA molecule called origins of replication. The enzyme called helicase unwinds and separates the DNA strands, forming a replication fork.
2. Unwinding: Helicase continues to unwind the DNA molecule, creating two single-stranded template strands.
3. Primer Binding: Another enzyme called primase synthesizes short RNA sequences called primers on the DNA template strands. These primers serve as starting points for DNA synthesis.
4. DNA Synthesis: The enzyme DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the primers, catalyzing the assembly of new DNA strands. DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides in the 5′ to 3′ direction, so each DNA template strand is synthesized in a different manner.
– Leading Strand Synthesis: The leading strand is continuously synthesized in the 5′ to 3′ direction in the same direction as the replication fork. DNA polymerase continuously adds nucleotides to this template strand.
– Lagging Strand Synthesis: The lagging strand is synthesized discontinuously as it runs in the opposite direction of the replication fork. It is composed of short DNA segments called Okazaki fragments. Primase creates RNA primers on the lagging strand at regular intervals, and DNA polymerase synthesizes DNA fragments between the RNA primers. DNA ligase then fuses the Okazaki fragments, creating a continuous strand.
5. Termination: DNA replication continues until it reaches the termination site, where special proteins halt the process. The DNA strands are then separated completely.
6. Proofreading and Repair: After replication is complete, DNA polymerase proofreads the newly synthesized DNA strands, correcting any errors in nucleotide incorporation. Additionally, other DNA repair mechanisms fix any damage or mistakes in the DNA molecule.
By completing the process of DNA replication, a cell ensures that each daughter cell receives a complete set of genetic information, allowing for genetic continuity and accurate transmission of genetic traits from one generation to the next.
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