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What is the function of the protein molecule helicase in DNA replication?
What is the role of the protein molecule primase in DNA replication?
What is the function of the protein molecule topoisomerase in DNA replication?
Where does DNA replication begin?
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What is the significance of the 5' and 3' ends of nucleotides in DNA?
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Study Notes
Functions of Key Proteins in DNA Replication
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Helicase
- Unwinds the DNA double helix, separating the two strands to allow replication.
- Moves along the DNA, breaking hydrogen bonds between complimentary base pairs.
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Primase
- Synthesizes short RNA primers necessary for DNA polymerase to start adding DNA nucleotides.
- Provides a starting point for DNA synthesis on the template strand.
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Topoisomerase
- Prevents supercoiling and tangling of DNA ahead of the replication fork.
- Cuts and re-ligates DNA strands to relieve torsional strain as helicase unwinds the DNA.
Initiation of DNA Replication
- DNA replication begins at specific locations called origins of replication.
- At the origin, proteins recognize and bind, causing localized unwinding of the helix.
Significance of 5' and 3' Ends in Nucleotides
- Nucleotides have directional orientation due to their phosphate and sugar components.
- The 5' end has a phosphate group, while the 3' end has a hydroxyl group; this orientation is crucial for DNA strand elongation.
- DNA synthesis occurs in a 5' to 3' direction, which affects how new strands are built during replication.
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Description
Test your knowledge of DNA replication with this quiz. Explore topics such as replication bubbles, sister chromatids, and the role of protein molecules in the replication process.
