DNA Replication Flashcards
Why does DNA replicate?
DNA copies itself before cell division so that each new cell has the full amount of DNA
Why is DNA replication important?
Its important for making new cells and for passing genetic info from generation to generation
What is the first step of DNA replication?
DNA helicase breaks the hydrogen bonds between the two polynucleotide DNA strands. The helix unzips to form two single strands.
What is the second step of DNA replication?
Each original single strand acts as a template for a new stand. Free floating DNA nucleotides join to the exposed bases on each original template strand by complementary base pairing A with T and G with C
What is the third step of DNA replication?
Dna polymerase join the nucleotides on the new strand, which then forms a sugar phosphate backbone. Hydrogen bonds form between the bases on the original and new strand. The strand twist to form a double helix. Each new DNA molecule contains one strand from the original DNA molecule and one new strand.
What is mutation?
Its any change to the DNA base sequence. They can alter the sequence of amino acids in a protein.
What can mutation cause?
An abnormal protein which might function better than the normal protein or it might not work at all.
Definition of DNA polymerase
Its an enzyme that join the nucleotides on the new strand
Definition of Helicase
An enzyme that break the hydrogen bonds between the nitrogenous pairs of bases in DNA
