Human Biochemistry Volume 2 - Murray R. 1993

Structure, Function, and Replication of Informational Macromolecules
DNA Organization and Replication
Introduction

The DNA of prokaryotic organisms interacts with Proteins involved in Replication and METABOLISM/31.html">Transcription. In eukaryotic organisms, a significant portion of DNA is surrounded by a multitude of various proteins. Together with DNA, these proteins form a complex Structure known as Chromatin, which provides the eukaryote-specific type of expression regulation.

Genetic information contained in chromosomal DNA can be transmitted either via precise replication or through recombination, transposition, and conversion. These processes underlie organismal Variability and drive their ability to adapt, yet they can also trigger diseases.

DNA replication is a complex and highly ordered process that, much like RNA Synthesis, proceeds along a DNA template in the 5'→3' direction. Chromosomal DNA replication initiates at multiple sites and proceeds simultaneously along both strands. DNA Synthesis AND repair are governed by the Watson-Crick rules of complementary nucleotide base pairing. These processes are catalyzed by a wide range of Enzymes.



Last update: 06/08/2026

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