DNA is the molecule which carries the hereditary instructions. DNA replication is the process that copies the DNA of an organism within its body. One DNA is copied into two identical strands. This biological process has different stages, and the basic process is almost the same in all animals. Here are some interesting facts about DNA replication:
Fact 1: DNA replication is self-complementary, and it does not need a third party. The two strands of a DNA act as parents and work as a template to synthesize the two daughters of DNA.
Fact 2: Unzipping is the first step of DNA replication. In this step, the hydrogen bond between the two base pairs is broken down and divides the DNA molecule into two strands.
Fact 3: According to an estimate, there are nearly 3 billion DNA bases in our genome, and during DNA replication they all replicate.
Fact 4: In terms of computer language, if we want to store these 3 billion bases on a computer, it will take 3 gigabytes of storage space on a computer.
Fact 5: When there are any changes in the DNA sequence, which takes place during DNA replication, it is called mutations. A mutation can lead to a new species.
Fact 6: Mutation can cause changes in DNA bases only, but it can be one or even more than one basis.
Fact 7: DNA replication can be done outside of the animal’s body in labs too. The polymerase chain reaction is the process developed for this purpose.
Fact 8: DNA replication is slower in large animals while it’s quite fast in small organisms.
Fact 9: A large number of enzymes play an important role in DNA replication; a single enzyme cannot handle the process.
Fact 10: DNA replication is affected by the environment. Some environmental factors can turn them on or off in different situations.