DNA Replication

DNA replication is an important biological process that acts as a basis for cell growth and division. When somatic cell divides, the DNA must also replicate itself so that each daughter cell will contain identical DNA transcripts. This process begins at sections of the DNA called the origin of replication. These origins of replication tend to contain AT repeats due to the fact that Adenine and Thymine have a weaker bond making it easier for those two nucleotide to seperate. Helicase will separate the base pairs and establish the replication fork. Initiator proteins will bind to the origin of replication and recruit essential proteins for replication. DNA polymerase will be recruited by the initiator proteins like primase and begin elongation in the 3' direction. Following initiation, the DNA will elongate in a 5' to 3' direction due to the free hydroxyl group. The opposite strand, or lagging strand, must be replicated in fragments because DNA must be replicated 5' to 3'. These fragments are called  Okazaki fragments. Since DNA replication is initiated at many parts in the genome, it will be terminated a various points as well. Termination will be a result of a blocked replication fork.