Replication of DNA Flashcards
4 things that must be present for DNA replication
Enzymes
Primers
DNA nucleotides
Template strand
What is a primer
Short strand of DNA nucleotides that binds to 3’ end of DNA template strand
Role of a primer
Allows a start point for DNA polymerase to begin replication of DNA
Name the 2 enzymes involved in DNA replication
DNA polymerase
Ligase
Role of DNA polymerase
Adds complementary nucleotides to the 3’end of the new strand that is forming
Role of ligase
Joins fragments of DNA together on lagging strand
Type of replication of lagging strand
Discontinuous
Type of replication on leading strand
Continuous
Why is lagging strand replicated in fragments
DNA polymerase can only add DNA nucleotides in one direction from 3’ to 5’ end
Purpose of PCR
To amplify DNA
What is PCR
repeated cycles of heating and cooling to amplify target region of DNA
What happens in stage 1 of PCR
DNA heated to between 92 and 98 degrees to separate strands by breaking hydrogen bonds between bases
What happens in stage 2 of PCR
DNA cooled to between 50 and 65 degrees to allow primers to bind to target sequences
What happens in stage 3 of PCR
DNA heated to between 70 and 80 degrees for heat tolerant DNA polymerase to replicate the region of DNA.
What is PCR used for
Solving crimes
Setting paternity suits