Chapter 7
Replication: A Copy Machine for DNA
IN THIS CHAPTER
Uncovering the pattern for copying DNA
Putting together a new DNA molecule
Revealing how circular DNA versus molecules replicate
Everything in genetics relies on replication — the process of copying DNA accurately, quickly, and efficiently. Replication is part of reproduction (producing eggs and sperm), development (making all the cells needed by a growing embryo), and maintaining normal life (replacing skin, blood, and muscle cells).
Before meiosis can occur, the entire genome must be replicated so that a potential parent can make the eggs or sperm necessary for creating offspring (see Chapter 2 for a review of meiosis). After fertilization occurs, the growing embryo must have the right genetic instructions in every cell to make all the tissues needed for life. As life outside the womb goes on, almost every cell in your body needs a copy of the entire genome to ensure that the genes that carry out the business of living are present and ready for action. For example, because you’re constantly replacing your skin cells and white blood cells, your DNA is being replicated right now so that your cells have the genes they ...
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