Question

What are Okazaki fragments

Answer 1

During DNA replication, double-stranded DNA is uncoiled into single strands on which the synthesis of new DNA template takes place. Two templates of new DNA are formed, one on each strand of parent DNA, called the leading strand and lagging strand.

Leading strand is synthesized from the 3' end of parent DNA and therefore it in itself is synthesized from 5' to 3' (new DNA). It is a continuous strand and there is no breakage or fragments in the newly formed DNA.

The lagging strand is synthesized from the 3' end of parent DNA and therefore it in itself is also synthesized from 5' to 3' (new DNA). However, it is not a continuous strand and there is breakage or fragments in the newly formed DNA. It is synthesized in fragments of small DNA templets on parent DNA. These fragments are called Okazaki fragments. The name is based on the scientist, Reiji Okazaki, who discovered these fragments.