Final answer:
The autonomous replicating sequence is the origin of DNA replication in yeast, functioning similarly to OriC in E. coli, but allowing for multiple sites of replication in the eukaryotic genome.
Step-by-step explanation:
In yeast, the autonomous replicating sequence functions as the origin of DNA replication. These sequences are special areas on the chromosomes of eukaryotic organisms like yeast, and they act similarly to the origin of replication in E. coli, which is called OriC. Unlike prokaryotic cells, which typically have a single origin of replication, eukaryotic chromosomes can have many origins of replication, allowing DNA replication to occur simultaneously at multiple sites within the genome.
The DNA replication process in eukaryotes such as yeast is much slower than in prokaryotes, occurring at a rate of approximately 100 nucleotides per second. This process begins at the autonomous replicating sequences where replication machinery, including various proteins and enzymes, binds to initiate replication. As replication proceeds, replication forks extend bi-directionally, ensuring the entire chromosome is accurately replicated.