DNA REPLICATION Meaning and
Definition
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DNA replication is a fundamental biological process in which the genetic material, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), is duplicated or copied to produce an identical or near-identical copy of itself. This intricate process occurs prior to cell division, ensuring that each daughter cell receives a complete set of DNA molecules.
During DNA replication, multiple enzymes and proteins work together to separate the two strands of the DNA double helix, breaking the hydrogen bonds that hold them together. The separated strands then act as templates for the synthesis of new complementary strands. Nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA, are added to these templates by a DNA polymerase enzyme. The nucleotides are matched to the existing strands based on the principle of base pairing (adenine with thymine and cytosine with guanine). As a result, two identical DNA molecules are formed, each composed of one original (parental) strand and one newly synthesized (daughter) strand.
DNA replication is a highly accurate process, essential for the transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next. Errors in replication can lead to genetic mutations, which may have significant consequences for an organism. The replication process is regulated by various mechanisms to minimize errors, including proofreading and repair mechanisms that correct any mistakes that occur during replication.
Understanding the intricate details of DNA replication is crucial not only for basic scientific research but also for various fields such as medicine, genetics, and biotechnology. It plays a vital role in genetic inheritance, evolution, and the perpetuation of life itself.
Common Misspellings for DNA REPLICATION
- sna replication
- xna replication
- cna replication
- fna replication
- rna replication
- ena replication
- dba replication
- dma replication
- dja replication
- dha replication
- dnz replication
- dns replication
- dnw replication
- dnq replication
- dna eeplication
- dna deplication
- dna feplication
- dna teplication
- dna 5eplication
- dna 4eplication
Etymology of DNA REPLICATION
The word "DNA replication" is derived from the combination of different terms:
1. DNA: Stands for "deoxyribonucleic acid", which is a molecule that carries genetic instructions in living organisms.
2. Replication: Derived from the Latin word "replicare", which means "to repeat" or "to copy". In the context of DNA, it refers to the process of duplicating or making an identical copy of the DNA molecule.
Therefore, the etymology of "DNA replication" can be understood as the process of copying or duplicating the deoxyribonucleic acid molecule.
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