DNA Replication

Act I: Initiation
-helicase untwists and separates the template DNA strands making a bubble-like structure.
-SSBP keep the unpaired template strands apart during replication, stabilizing the single DNA strand.
-Gyrase cuts DNA to release tension.
-Primase land and create primers which act as a signal for Polymerase III. (invasion concept)
-Polymerase III recognize the primers.

Act II: Elongation
-A new DNA strand grows from 5' -> 3'
-Polymerase III add nucleotides to the free 3' end of a growing DNA strand.
-Leading strand (3' -> 5') is used by polymerases as a template for building a new, continuous strand.
-Lagging strand (5' -> 3') is copied in short segments (Okazaki fragments).

Act III: Termination
-Polymerase I cleans up after III by proofreading and replacing primers.
-Okazaki fragments are joined by DNA ligase.