List the steps of DNA replication.

DNA replication is a complex process that involves several steps to ensure accurate duplication of the genetic material. Here are the steps of DNA replication:

Step 1: Initiation

• Origin of Replication: Replication begins at specific locations in the DNA known as origins of replication.
• Unwinding of DNA: The enzyme helicase unwinds the double helix, creating a replication fork.
• Stabilization: Single-strand binding proteins (SSBs) bind to the separated strands to prevent them from re-annealing.

Step 2: Primer Binding

• RNA Primer Synthesis: Primase synthesizes a short RNA primer complementary to the DNA strand, providing a starting point for DNA synthesis.

Step 3: Elongation

• Leading Strand Synthesis: DNA polymerase III adds nucleotides continuously in the 5’ to 3’ direction on the leading strand.
• Lagging Strand Synthesis: On the lagging strand, DNA polymerase III synthesizes short DNA fragments called Okazaki fragments, also in the 5’ to 3’ direction.

Step 4: Primer Removal and Replacement

• Exonuclease Activity: DNA polymerase I removes the RNA primers and replaces them with DNA nucleotides.

Step 5: Ligation

• Joining of Fragments: DNA ligase seals the gaps between Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand, forming a continuous DNA strand.

Step 6: Termination

• Completion of Replication: Replication ends when the entire DNA molecule has been duplicated, resulting in two identical DNA molecules.

These steps ensure that the genetic information is accurately copied and passed on to the next generation of cells.