DNA replication is described as semiconservative. What does semiconservative replication mean?

• A. Each daughter DNA molecule contains one parental (old) strand and one newly synthesized strand.
• B. Parental DNA is fragmented, and daughter DNA molecules are assembled from mixed old and new DNA segments within each strand.
• C. Each daughter DNA molecule contains two parental strands that remain paired while new DNA is made separately.
• D. Each daughter DNA molecule contains two newly synthesized strands and no parental strands.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of DNA replication: DNA replication is the process by which a cell copies its DNA before cell division, ensuring each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic information.
2. Recall the structure of DNA: DNA is double-stranded, with two complementary strands running in opposite directions, held together by base pairing.
3. Define semiconservative replication: In semiconservative replication, each of the two new DNA molecules contains one original (parental) strand and one newly synthesized strand.
4. Contrast semiconservative replication with other models: For example, conservative replication would keep the original double helix intact and produce a completely new double helix, while dispersive replication would mix old and new DNA segments within each strand.
5. Apply this understanding to the problem: The correct description of semiconservative replication is that each daughter DNA molecule contains one parental strand and one newly synthesized strand.