DNA replication explained from "summary" of Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry Plus LaunchPad by
DNA replication is a complex process that involves the duplication of genetic material within a cell. It starts with the unwinding of a double stranded DNA molecule, followed by the separation of the two strands and the assembly of two new strands with the help of complementary nucleotides.- The replication process starts when enzymes break the hydrogen bonds between the base pairs of the double helix structure of DNA, splitting two identical strands apart.
- DNA Replication is the process of making identical copies of the original strand of genetic material. It’s essential for living organisms as it ensures that each generation will inherit their parents’ genetic characteristics. Without it, life forms wouldn't be able to pass on information to future generations.
- Each single stranded DNA molecule then acts as a template for its partner strand which gives rise to the replication process. New nucleotides are added along the four sides of the template strand, forming new base pairs with complementary bases of the complementary strand.
- In order to reproduce, cells must replicate their genetic material first. This occurs during a special stage of cell division called ‘interphase’ which occurs prior to mitosis and meiosis.
- After both parent strands are re-assembled into separate double helix molecules, they become two distinct copies of the original DNA molecules. While in prokaryotes this whole process can take less than 20 minutes, eukaryotic cells also have to undergo multiple steps of cellular processes before DNA replication can start.
