DNA Structure Quiz

DNA Structure and Function

• DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the molecule that carries genetic information.
• Its structure consists of a sugar-phosphate backbone and nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine).
• Deoxyribose is the sugar component of DNA, contributing to its name.

DNA Replication Process

• Replication begins with unwinding the DNA double helix, a process facilitated by an enzyme known as helicase.
• Leading strand synthesis proceeds continuously, while the lagging strand is synthesized in short segments called Okazaki fragments.
• RNA primase synthesizes a short RNA primer, allowing DNA polymerase to begin elongation of the new DNA strand.

Key Enzymes Involved

• Topoisomerase alleviates the strain ahead of the replication fork caused by unwinding.
• DNA polymerase is responsible for adding nucleotides to the growing DNA strand.
• RNAse degrades the RNA primers once DNA synthesis is underway, allowing for complete DNA strand formation.

Important Concepts

• The directionality of DNA strands is indicated as 5' to 3', a crucial factor during replication.
• Each strand of DNA serves as a template for the formation of a new complementary strand.
• Accurate DNA replication is critical for maintaining genetic consistency in cell division and organism growth.