Biochemistry

Study of chemical processes within and relating to living organisms.

Biomolecules: The Building Blocks of LifeEnzymes: Nature's CatalystsCellular Respiration: Energy for Life
DNA Replication and Protein SynthesisMetabolism: Anabolic and Catabolic PathwaysCell Signaling and Communication
Biochemistry in MedicineBiotechnology and Genetic EngineeringFood and Nutrition
Concept Mapping for Complex PathwaysPractice with Real-life Scenarios
Biomolecules: The Bu...Enzymes: Nature's Ca...Cellular Respiration...DNA Replication and ...Metabolism: Anabolic...Cell Signaling and C...Biochemistry in Medi...Biotechnology and Ge...Food and NutritionConcept Mapping for ...Practice with Real-l...
Advanced Topics

DNA Replication and Protein Synthesis

How Do Cells Copy Themselves?

DNA replication is how cells make exact copies of their genetic material before dividing. The DNA molecule unzips, and special enzymes help add matching bases to form two identical DNA strands.

Making Proteins

After DNA is copied, cells use the genetic code to build proteins. This happens in two steps:

  • Transcription: The DNA code is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA).
  • Translation: Ribosomes read the mRNA and assemble amino acids into a protein.

This amazing process ensures that every cell has the instructions and tools it needs to function!

Key Formula

\[\text{DNA} \rightarrow \text{RNA} \rightarrow \text{Protein}\]

Examples

  • Your body repairs a cut by making new skin cells using DNA replication.

  • Insulin, a protein hormone, is made by translating genetic instructions.

In a Nutshell

Cells copy DNA and use it to make proteins that do all the work.

Key Terms

Transcription
The process of copying DNA into RNA.
Translation
The process where ribosomes build proteins using mRNA instructions.
Next
Metabolism: Anabolic and Catabolic Pathways