Replication forks

Definition

Replication forks are Y-shaped structures formed during DNA replication, where the double-stranded DNA is split into two single strands. They are pivotal in allowing the synthesis of new DNA strands.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Replication forks are created by the unwinding of DNA by helicase enzymes.
2. They have leading and lagging strands, which are synthesized continuously and discontinuously, respectively.
3. Single-strand binding proteins stabilize the separated DNA strands at the fork.
4. DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the 3' end of each strand during replication at the fork.
5. Topoisomerase prevents supercoiling ahead of the replication fork.

Review Questions

Related terms

Helicase:

An enzyme that unwinds the double-stranded DNA helix ahead of the replication fork.

DNA Polymerase:

An enzyme responsible for adding nucleotides to a growing DNA strand during replication.

Topoisomerase:

An enzyme that alleviates supercoiling tension ahead of the replication fork.