Describe the process of DNA replication in prokaryotes, including the roles of key enzymes (helicase, primase, DNA polymerase, ligase) and the leading and lagging strands.

1. DNA Replication, Transcription, and Protein Synthesis

a) Describe the process of DNA replication in prokaryotes, including the roles of key enzymes (helicase, primase, DNA polymerase, ligase) and the leading and lagging strands.

DNA replication in prokaryotes is a semi-conservative process where each new DNA molecule consists of one original strand and one newly synthesized strand. It occurs in the cytoplasm and involves several key steps:

1. Initiation:
   • Replication begins at a specific origin of replication (oriC).
   • DnaA proteins bind to oriC, causing the DNA to unwind slightly.
   • Helicase (DnaB) then binds and unwinds the DNA double helix,