Describe the role of ¹⁵N in the Meselson–Stahl experiment.

In this chapter, we focused on how DNA is replicated and synthesized. We also discussed recombination at the DNA level. Along the way, we encountered many opportunities to consider how this information was acquired. On the basis of these discussions, what answers would you propose to the following fundamental questions?How do we know that in vivo DNA synthesis occurs in the 5' to 3' direction?

In this chapter, we focused on how DNA is replicated and synthesized. We also discussed recombination at the DNA level. Along the way, we encountered many opportunities to consider how this information was acquired. On the basis of these discussions, what answers would you propose to the following fundamental questions?How was it demonstrated that DNA synthesis occurs under the direction of DNA polymerase III and not polymerase I?

Write a short essay that distinguishes between the terms replication and synthesis, as applied to DNA. Which of the two is most closely allied with the field of biochemistry?

Compare conservative, semiconservative, and dispersive modes of DNA replication.

Predict the results of the experiment by Taylor, Woods, and Hughes if replication were (a) conservative and (b) dispersive.

What are the requirements for in vitro synthesis of DNA under the direction of DNA polymerase I?

In Kornberg's initial experiments, it was rumored that he grew E. coli in Anheuser-Busch beer vats. (Kornberg was working at Washington University in St. Louis.) Why do you think this might have been helpful to the experiment?

How did Kornberg assess the fidelity of DNA polymerase I in copying a DNA template?