Ligase in AP Biology

Definition

Ligase is an enzyme that facilitates the joining of DNA strands together by forming a bond between them. It plays a crucial role in DNA replication and repair.

Related terms

DNA Polymerase: This is another enzyme involved in DNA replication. It adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand.

Okazaki Fragments:

These are short sequences of DNA nucleotides (approximately 150 to 200 base pairs long in eukaryotes) which are synthesized discontinuously and later linked together by the enzyme DNA ligase to create the lagging strand during DNA replication.

Nucleotide:

The basic building block of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.