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Question

Why is DNA replication bidirectional ?


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Solution

Bidirectional DNA replication:

  1. DNA replication is the process of making new copies of double-stranded DNA by synthesizing new DNA strands.
  2. DNA replication is a bidirectional process as the strands of DNA are antiparallel, i.e., 3'-5' in one strand and 5'-3' in the other direction.
  3. The DNA polymerase synthesizes the DNA in 5'-3' direction.
  4. Hence, on the template strand the synthesis occurs in 5'-3' direction continuously whereas in the non-template strand it occurs discontinuously in 3'-5' direction creating small fragments of DNA known as Okazaki fragments.
  5. Thus, bidirectional replication involves replicating DNA in two directions at the same time which results in a leading strand and a lagging strand.
  6. DNA replication can occur in a unidirectional or bidirectional fashion.
  7. When the replication occurs bidirectionally, none of the two ends will be stationary and both will be moving.


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