DNA REPLICATION DNA Structure DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid is a type of molecule known as a nucleic acid. It consists of a 5-carbon deoxyribose sugar, a phosphate, and a nitrogenous base. Double-stranded DNA consists of two spiral nucleic acid chains that are twisted into a double helix shape. This twisting allows DNA to be more compact. In order to fit within the nucleus, DNA is packed into tightly coiled structures called chromatin . Chromatin condenses to form chromosomes during cell division. Prior to DNA replication, the chromatin loosens giving cell replication machinery access to the DNA strands. Replication of DNA When a cell divides, each daughter cell must receive its full complement of genetic material in the form of chromosomes containing DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid. A chromosome is made up of two long strands of DNA and several types of proteins . A DNA strand is composed of a long backbone of sugar and phosphate units . One of our different nucleotid...
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