DNA structure and function

DNA Replication

DNA (DeoxyriboNucleic Acid)

a nucleic acid that carries the genetic
code (instructions) for all organisms.
Found in the Nucleus

(cannot leave)
Its shape is a Double
Helix
Constructed of
Nucleotide monomers
The order of its bases
carry the codes for
building proteins.

DNA Nucleotide Structure

Nucleotides are

constructed of:
Deoxyribose
sugar
Nitrogen base
Phosphate

DNA Structure:
Phosphates attach

to sugars to
construct the sides
of the DNA strand.
Bases attach
together to form
the middle (rungs)
of the DNA strand

Nucleotide and Bases:

Each Nucleotide holds one of

the four Nitrogenous bases:

Adenine
Thymine
Guanine
Cytosine

Each base pairs with only one

of the other three bases:

Adenine with Thymine

A-T

Cytosine with Guanine

C-G

DNA Replication
DNA copies itself before cell

division (mitosis, meiosis) can

take place.
Stages of DNA replication:
DNA unzips the hydrogen bond

between the bases that holds the

double strand together.
Free floating nucleotides move
in and attach with their
complimentary base pairs.
Phosphates and sugars bond
together to form sides
The hydrogen bonds zip up to
close the new molecule of DNA

Replication Models
Mother strand

Daughter
strand

Semi-Conservative DNA Replication

Daughter strand paired with mother strand
1 original strand (mother)
1 newly replicated strand (daughter strand)
Maintains consistent genetic code to prevent

mutation.