AIIMS and NEET CHEMISTRY &CSIR-NET LIFESCIENCES -Defining LIFE &'Dna replication.(MOLECULAR LEVEL)

Here are some things to know about DNA replication: 


Replication fork

The area where DNA replication takes place. The DNA strands are opened and exposed, and then DNA polymerase adds matching nucleotides to the growing strand. 



DNA polymerases

These enzymes make DNA molecules from nucleotide building blocks. DNA polymerases usually work in pairs to copy one double-stranded DNA molecule into two. 


Helicase

This protein unwinds the DNA double-helix and separates the hydrogen bonds that hold the two strands together. 


Primase

This enzyme synthesizes a small RNA primer that acts as a "kick-starter" for DNA polymerase. 



DNA ligase

This enzyme is present in almost all living organisms and is required for DNA replication, repair, and recombination. 

 

Origin of replication

This is the point where replication begins. 


Eukaryotic DNA replication

Eukaryotes strictly regulate DNA replication so that it occurs once per cell cycle.