Summary
The copying of DNA before cell division so each daughter cell receives a full set of genes.
In depth
Replication starts at origins, where helicase unwinds the helix to create replication forks. Each strand serves as a template, and DNA polymerase builds a complementary strand. The process is semi-conservative and highly accurate, with an error rate of about 1 in 10 billion after proofreading and mismatch repair.
In S phase a human cell copies 3 billion base pairs in a few hours using thousands of origins.
Frequently asked questions
What is DNA Replication?
The copying of DNA before cell division so each daughter cell receives a full set of genes.
Which area of biology covers DNA Replication, and how advanced is it?
DNA Replication is one of the 52 topics in Molecular Biology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Transcription, Semi-Conservative Replication, Homologous Recombination.
Why does DNA Replication matter?
Errors that escape repair become mutations passed to daughter cells.
What should I learn before DNA Replication?
DNA Replication is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Molecular Biology that pair well with it include Central Dogma, Base Pairing, Transcription.
What topics are related to DNA Replication?
The closest topics to DNA Replication are Transcription, Semi-Conservative Replication, Homologous Recombination, DNA Repair. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand DNA Replication?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for DNA Replication. To practise the whole of Molecular Biology, use the Molecular Biology quiz.
How is DNA Replication different from Transcription?
DNA Replication: The copying of DNA before cell division so each daughter cell receives a full set of genes. Transcription: The process of making an RNA copy of a gene using DNA as a template. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study DNA Replication step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Transcription and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Molecular Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.