What are Lagging Strands?

Lagging strands are one of the two synthesized DNA strands formed during DNA replication is a process that ensures the accurate transmission of genetic information during cell division. The replication of DNA is a complex process, and the lagging strand plays a distinct role in this mechanism.

Characteristic of Lagging Strands

The characteristics of Lagging Strands are as follows:

• Replication Process: In the lagging strand, synthesis occurs in fragments called Okazaki fragments. DNA polymerase synthesizes these fragments in the opposite direction to the replication fork’s movement, resulting in a discontinuous pattern.
• Fragment Formation: The lagging strand undergoes fragmentary synthesis and forms Okazaki fragments. Each of these fragments starts with the synthesis of an RNA primer by the primase enzyme. DNA polymerase then extends each fragment, creating a series of short, disconnected segments.
• Necessity Of Primer: The lagging strand necessitates multiple RNA primers, each serving as the starting point for the synthesis of an Okazaki fragment. These primers provide the signal for DNA polymerase to begin the formation of each fragment.
• Ligase Requirement: DNA ligase is indispensable for the lagging strand. After the synthesis of each Okazaki fragment, the gaps between them are sealed by DNA ligase.
• Growth Direction: The lagging strand grows against the direction of the replication fork, creating a more staggered pattern due to the formation of Okazaki fragments.
• Replication Speed: The lagging strand, with its discontinuous synthesis in the form of Okazaki fragments, is replicated at a slightly slower rate. This synthesis introduces a level of complexity that requires additional steps in the replication process.

Also Read: Difference Between Transcription And Replication

Leading and Lagging Strands are two complementary strands that show different characteristics during DNA replication. These strands, though work in tandem, show different characteristics that contribute to the precision of DNA replication. The lagging strand in DNA replication is synthesized discontinuously in short fragments called Okazaki fragments, and the leading strand is synthesized continuously in the 5′ to 3′ direction. This article will help in understanding the difference between the Lagging and Leading strands which is essential to comprehend the complexity of DNA replication.