Why the DNA does have to replicate?

DNA REPLICATION is one of the most basic processes that occur within a cell. Each
time a cell divides, the two resulting daughter cells must contain exactly the same
genetic information, or DNA, as the parent cell. To accomplish this, each strand of
existing DNA acts as a template for replication.

What acts as the template in DNA replication?

The double helix is un'zipped' and unwound by breaking the weak hydrogen bonds that
link the paired bases. Once the DNA strands have been unwound, they must be held
apart to expose the bases so that new nucleotide partners can hydrogen-bond to them.
Then each separated strand (turquoise) acts as a template for replicating a new partner
strand (green). Nucleotides (bases) are matched to synthesize the new partner strands
into two new double helices.

How does the DNA molecule copy itself?

Once the strands are separated, an enzyme called DNA polymerase copies each strand
using the base-pairing rule.

Why is it necessary for the cell to copy its DNA?

It plays an important part in the development of embryos, and it is important for the
growth and development of our bodies as well. Mitosis produces new cells, and
replaces cells that are old, lost or damaged. In mitosis a cell divides to form two
identical daughter cells.

Replication is the process where DNA makes a copy of itself.

DNA replication is semi-conservative. That means that when it makes a copy, one half
of the old strand is always kept in the new strand. This helps reduce the number of copy
errors.

GENE MUTATION - Any change in the sequence of nucleotides in DNA

 A gene mutation is a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence that makes up a
gene, such that the sequence differs from what is found in most people.
Mutations range in size; they can affect anywhere from a single DNA building
block (base pair) to a large segment of a chromosome that includes multiple
genes.

Damaged DNA can be mutated either by substitution, deletion or insertion of base

pairs. Mutations, for the most part, are harmless except when they lead to cell death or
tumor formation.
Causes of Mutations

 Errors in DNA Replication

On very, very rare occasions DNA polymerase will incorporate a
noncomplementary base into the daughter strand. During the next round of
replication the missincorporated base would lead to a mutation. This, however, is
very rare as the exonuclease functions as a proofreading mechanism recognizing
mismatched base pairs and excising them.
 Errors in DNA Recombination
DNA often rearranges itself by a process called recombination which proceeds
via a variety of mechanisms. Occasionally DNA is lost during replication leading
to a mutation.
 Chemical Damage to DNA
Many chemical mutagens, some exogenous, some man-made, some
environmental, are capable of damaging DNA. Many chemotherapeutic drugs
and intercalating agent drugs function by damaging DNA.
 Radiation
Gamma rays, X-rays, even UV light can interact with compounds in the cell
generating free radicals which cause chemical damage to DNA.
– Ultraviolet lights is strongly absorbed by DNA to such extent that exposure
to ultraviolet light rapidly kill most cells.
 DNA Repair
Damaged DNA can be repaired by several different mechanisms.