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Overview of DNA Replication definitions

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  • Double Helix

    A structure formed by two intertwined DNA strands, stabilized by hydrogen bonds, serving as the template for replication.
  • Leading Strand

    A DNA template strand allowing continuous synthesis of a new strand in the 5' to 3' direction during replication.
  • Lagging Strand

    A DNA template strand replicated discontinuously, producing short DNA segments due to its antiparallel orientation.
  • Okazaki Fragment

    A short DNA segment synthesized on the lagging strand, later joined to form a continuous DNA molecule.
  • DNA Helicase

    An enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix by breaking hydrogen bonds, initiating replication.
  • Single-Strand Binding Protein

    A protein that stabilizes unwound DNA regions, preventing reformation of hydrogen bonds between separated strands.
  • Topoisomerase

    An enzyme that relieves tension and prevents supercoiling by cutting and rejoining DNA ahead of the replication fork.
  • DNA Polymerase III

    A primary enzyme complex responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands by adding nucleotides to an RNA primer.
  • Accessory Protein

    A molecule that enhances the efficiency and processivity of DNA polymerase during strand synthesis.
  • Primase

    An enzyme that synthesizes short RNA primers, providing starting points for DNA polymerase during replication.
  • RNA Primer

    A short RNA sequence synthesized by primase, marking the initiation site for DNA synthesis.
  • DNA Polymerase I

    An enzyme that removes RNA primers and replaces them with DNA nucleotides during replication.
  • DNA Ligase

    An enzyme that connects Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand, forming a continuous DNA strand.
  • Exonuclease Activity

    A function enabling removal of mismatched nucleotides from DNA, enhancing replication fidelity.
  • Proofreading

    A quality control process by DNA polymerase, correcting errors via 3' to 5' exonuclease activity during replication.