Answer to Question #217743 in Genetics for Fortune Aidoo

Question

Discuss the similarities and differences in DNA replication between eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Are the changes in eukaryotes adaptations? Explain.

Answer 1

The similarities between eukaryotes and prokaryotes DNA replication.

a) Both the replication processes occur before nuclear division.

b)The DNA involved in both processes are double-stranded.

c)The replication occurs in 5’ to 3’ direction.

d) The RNA primer is synthesised by the enzyme primase.

Differences in DNA replication between eukaryotes and prokaryotes.

In prokaryotic cells, there is only one point of origin, replication occurs in two opposing directions at the same time, and takes place in the cell cytoplasm. In eukaryotic cells, there are multiple points of origin, and use unidirectional replication within the nucleus of the cell.

Replication happens at a much faster rate in prokaryotes cells, than in eukaryotes. Some bacteria take only 40 minutes, while animal cells such as humans may take up to 400 hours.

Eukaryotes have a distinct process for replicating the telomeres at the ends of their chromosomes. With their circular chromosomes, prokaryotes have no ends to synthesize.

Replication in prokaryotes occurs almost continuously, but in eukaryotes cells only undergo DNA replication during the S-phase of the cell cycle.

In my opinion,changes in eukaryotes were or are adaptions, it took many mutations and natural selection for eukaryotes to evolve. It was the result of a small changes in the structure and functioning of cells over a long time.