DNA replication is the process by which a cell makes an identical copy of its DNA during cell division. It occurs during interphase and involves the semiconservative replication of DNA, where the two original DNA strands separate and each serves as a template for a new complementary strand to form, resulting in two identical DNA molecules each with one original and one new strand.

1. Lesson # 14
Molecular Genetics

2. DNA Replication
◦ All DNA molecules need to be doubled o
replicated in order for the cell to be able to
make 2 nuclei out of one.
◦ Each nucleus must receive the same
number of DNA molecules.
◦ Takes place during Interphase (Phase S)

3. At a molecular level
• Semiconservative replication.
• The two complimentary DNA strands
separate.
• Free-floating nucleotides join to their
complimentary bases through hydrogen
bonds.
• Each strand serves as a template for the
formation of a new complimentary strand.
• The new strand forms in direction n 5’  3’
• As a result: 2 identical DNA molecules with
an old strand and a newly formed strand.