Question

What are Okazaki fragments and in which process are they formed?

Hint:

Okazaki fragments = Lagging strand fragments

• Found only in DNA replication
• Discontinuous synthesis
• Joined by DNA ligase

Leading strand = continuous, Lagging strand = fragmented.

Answer 1

Concept: Okazaki fragments are short DNA segments formed during DNA replication.
Definition: Okazaki fragments are short, newly synthesized DNA fragments produced discontinuously on the lagging strand during DNA replication.
Process in Which They Are Formed: They are formed during: \[ \text{DNA Replication} \] Specifically on the
lagging strand.
Reason for Formation:

• DNA polymerase can synthesize DNA only in the 5' $\rightarrow$ 3' direction.
• The lagging strand runs in the opposite direction.
• Hence, DNA is synthesized discontinuously in small fragments.

Formation Steps:

• RNA primer is laid down.
• DNA polymerase extends the fragment.
• Multiple short fragments are formed.
• DNA ligase joins them into a continuous strand.

Key Enzymes Involved:

• DNA polymerase
• Primase
• DNA ligase