Summary of DNA replication
DNA replication is the process by which cells make copies of the genome's DNA. A cell
must first copy (or duplicate) its entire genome before it can divide, ensuring that each
daughter cell has a complete genome upon division.
Overview of the processes
The opening of the double helix and separation of the DNA strands, priming of the
template strand, and construction of the new DNA segment are the three main phases
in replication. The DNA double helix's two strands uncoil at a specific spot known as the
origin during separation. Then, a number of proteins and enzymes combine to prime the
strands for duplication. Finally, the building of the new DNA strands is organized by a
unique enzyme known as DNA polymerase.
DNA replication “Making more DNA”
- It is a process where DNA needs to replicate itself when the cell needs to undergo
division.
- Specifically happens in the nucleus during interphase.
Enzymes needed
1. Helicase “Unzipping enzyme”
- DNA has a double helix structure and helicase enzyme unwind the DNA
2. DNA polymerase “The builder”
- Helps DNA molecule to build new strand of DNA
3. Primase “The initializer”
- Signal the polymerase where to start.
- It is an essential part of DNA polymerase to know whether to start in a 5’ to 3’
direction or 3’ to 5’ direction.
4. Ligase “The gluer”
- Helps DNA fragments together.
Process
1. Recognition of initiation point
- DNA replication starts at a specific point called initiation point or origin where
the replication fork begins.
2. Unwinding DNA
Helicase comes in and unwinds the DNA. And single stranded protein binds to
the DNA strand to keep the strand separated and Topoisomerase keep DNA
from supercoiling
3. Template DNA
- Single stranded DNA on which the new DNA is synthesized is called template DNA.
4. RNA primer
A formed polynucleotide chain is necessary to start the synthesis of DNA. RNA
polymerase synthesizes RNA primer on template DNA. In the absence of RNA primer,
the DNA replication is irregular.
5. Chain elongation
- New DNA strand is formed due to DNA polymerase III enzyme. This enzyme adds
nucleotides in 5’ to 3’ direction
6. Replication
-Due to opening of the DNA strand a replication fork is formed.
7. Proofreading
- making sure there is no double replication made that may lead to mutation.
8. Removal of RNA primer and completion of DNA strand
The RNA primer is removed by DNA polymerase I which synthesizes a short segment
of complementary DNA to seal the gap
9. Joining fragments
- fragments are joined by DNA ligate that forms a phosphodiesterase bond between 3’ OH end
of the growing strand and 5’ end of the okazaki fragment
The replication of DNA involves opening the double helix, separating DNA strands, priming
the template strand, and building a new DNA segment. The process involves the use of
proteins and some specific enzymes, such as helicase, DNA polymerase, primase, and
ligase. It starts at the initiation point, where helicase disintegrates the DNA and a protein is
bound to its strand to keep it from supercoiling. Through "template DNA" and RNA primers,
new DNA is synthesized. Hence, replication takes place after the chain elongation of
nucleotides; it then proceeds to proofread to prevent mutations. And finally, the completion
of the DNA strand occurs through the removal of the RNA primer.
