DNA Replication
the process of making identical copies of DNA before cell division
Replication Origin
Specific sequence of DNA where DNA synthesis begins.
Semiconservative replication
Each half of an original DNA molecule serves as a template for a new strand, and the two new DNA molecules each have one old and one new strand.
DNA helicase
An enzyme that unwinds the double helix of DNA and separates the DNA strands in preparation for DNA replication.
DNA Polymerase
Enzyme involved in DNA replication that joins individual nucleotides to produce a DNA molecule
RNA Primer
Sequence of RNA nucleotides bound to a region of single
leading strand
the strand of DNA that is continuously synthesized into the replication fork.
lagging strand
The strand that is synthesized away from the replication fork , in fragments using sections called Okazaki fragments.
Okazaki fragments
Small fragments of DNA produced on the lagging strand during DNA replication, joined later by DNA ligase to form a complete strand.
DNA ligase
enzyme which connects the individual okazaki fragments on the lagging strand by forming covalent bonds
direction of replication
5' to 3' direction; In DNA synthesis, DNA strands always elongate in a 5' to 3' direction.
double helix
The form of DNA, referring to its two strands wound into a spiral shape.
Primase
An enzyme that creates a short RNA primer for initiation of DNA replication.
deoxyribonucleic acid
A molecule that consists of nucleotide monomers used for transmitting genetic information from one generation to the next
nucleic acid
Macromolecules that includes DNA and RNA.
nucleotide
A subunit of nucleic acids formed from a simple sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
adenine
A nitrogen base found in DNA and RNA. It pairs with thymine in DNA and with uracil in RNA
guanine
A nitrogen base found in both DNA and RNA; pairs only with cytosine.
thymine
A nucleotide that pairs with adenine. Found only in DNA.
cytosine
A nitrogenous base found in DNA and RNA; pairs with guanine
hydrogen bond
A weak chemical bond used to hold complementary base pairs together
base pairs
Any of the pairs formed between complementary bases in the two nucleotide chains of DNA, such as A
Replication fork
Y shaped structure formed during DNA replication