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DNA Replication definitions

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  • Semi-conservative Replication
    Each new DNA molecule contains one original and one newly synthesized strand, ensuring genetic continuity.
  • Replication Origin
    A specific DNA sequence, often rich in adenine and thymine, where the process of DNA duplication begins.
  • Replication Fork
    Y-shaped region where the DNA double helix is actively unwound to allow synthesis of new strands.
  • Replication Bubble
    A locally unwound segment of DNA where active replication occurs, containing two replication forks.
  • Leading Strand
    The DNA strand synthesized continuously in the 5' to 3' direction, matching the unwinding of the helix.
  • Lagging Strand
    The DNA strand synthesized discontinuously in short fragments, requiring multiple primers.
  • Okazaki Fragments
    Short DNA segments formed on the lagging strand, later joined to create a continuous strand.
  • RNA Primer
    A short RNA sequence providing a starting point for DNA polymerase to begin synthesis.
  • DNA Polymerase
    An enzyme that adds nucleotides to a growing DNA strand, requiring a primer and working 5' to 3'.
  • Primase
    An enzyme that synthesizes short RNA primers, enabling DNA polymerase to initiate replication.
  • DNA Ligase
    An enzyme that seals nicks between Okazaki fragments, forming a continuous DNA strand.
  • Helicase
    A protein that unwinds the DNA double helix by breaking hydrogen bonds between bases.
  • Single-Stranded Binding Protein
    A protein that stabilizes unwound DNA strands, preventing them from re-annealing during replication.
  • Topoisomerase
    An enzyme that relieves supercoiling tension ahead of the replication fork by cutting and rejoining DNA.
  • Telomere
    A repetitive, non-coding DNA sequence at chromosome ends, protecting genetic information from loss.
  • Telomerase
    A specialized enzyme that extends telomeres, allowing complete replication of chromosome ends.
  • Proofreading
    A quality control function of DNA polymerase, correcting mismatched bases during DNA synthesis.
  • Exonuclease Activity
    The ability of DNA polymerase to remove incorrect nucleotides from the end of a growing DNA strand.
  • dNTP
    A deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate, serving as the building block and energy source for DNA synthesis.