What Components are Required During DNA Replication?

DNA Polymerase

DNA polymerase is a key enzyme involved in DNA replication. It is responsible for catalyzing the addition of nucleotides to the growing DNA strand. During replication, DNA polymerase reads the existing DNA template and adds complementary nucleotides to form a new DNA strand.

Deoxyribonucleotide Triphosphates (dNTPs)

Deoxyribonucleotide triphosphates (dNTPs) are the building blocks of DNA. These molecules provide the necessary nucleotides (A, T, C, and G) for DNA polymerase to add to the growing DNA strand during replication.

Single-Stranded DNA Primers

Single-stranded DNA primers are short nucleotide sequences that serve as starting points for DNA replication. These primers provide a free 3' end for DNA polymerase to initiate the synthesis of a new DNA strand.

Double-Stranded DNA Templates

Double-stranded DNA templates are the original DNA molecules that serve as a blueprint for replication. These templates provide the complementary base pairing for the synthesis of new DNA strands.