Chapter 11, Problem 1CONQ

What key structural features of the DNA molecule underlie its ability to be faithfully replicated?

Summary Introduction

To review:

The structural features that help DNA(deoxyribonucleic acid) replicate.

Introduction:

DNA is genetic material because it stores all the information to be transferred from one generation to another. DNA is found in the nucleus of every cell of the body and regulates the functions of the cell. All cells of the body is controlled and regulated by its own DNA.

Explanation of Solution

DNA is a double-stranded structure held together by complementary base pairing. Both the strands of DNA run in opposite directions, which means that both strands are antiparallel. One strand of DNA runs in the 5` to 3` direction while the other strand runs in the 3` to 5` direction.

DNA is a negatively charged molecule that is wrapped around the histone protein so as to minimize its length in order for it to occupy minimum space in the nucleus. The ability of DNA to self-replicate is very unique. However, in the case of RNA(ribonucleic acid), it is dependent on DNA for its synthesis. DNA is able to self-replicate due to double strands as both the strands can synthesize complementary strands, which can join together with the help of hydrogen bonding.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that the complementary double strand of DNA is the reason for its ability to self-replicate.