Question

Describe the process of dna replication using following terms (helicase, DNA polymerase, ligase, RNA Primase, Semiconservative replication)

Answer 1

DNA replication is a complex process involving enzymes like helicase, DNA polymerase, and ligase to unwind DNA, synthesize new strands, and join DNA fragments, respectively, resulting in two identical DNA molecules, each with one original and one new strand.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process of DNA replication is a critical function for cell division and involves several key enzymes:

1. Helicase unwinds the DNA double helix and forms replication forks.
2. Single-strand binding proteins stabilize the unwound DNA.
3. Topoisomerase prevents supercoiling ahead of the replication fork.
4. RNA Primase synthesizes RNA primers to initiate synthesis.
5. DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the primer, forming a new strand.
6. Exonuclease removes RNA primers and DNA polymerase fills the gaps.
7. Finally, ligase seals the fragments, completing the strand.

DNA replication is termed semiconservative because it produces two copies that each contain one original strand and one new strand.

Answer 2

DNA replication is the production of identical DNA helices from a single double-stranded DNA molecule. Each molecule consists of a strand from the original molecule and a newly formed strand. Prior to replication, the DNA uncoils and strands separate. A replication fork is formed which serves as a template for replication. Primers bind to the DNA and DNA polymerases add new nucleotide sequences in the 5′ to 3′ direction. This addition is continuous in the leading strand and fragmented in the lagging strand. Once elongation of the DNA strands is complete, the strands are checked for errors, repairs are made and telomere sequences are added to the ends of the DNA.