Definition of Heteroduplex



Heteroduplex is a region present in the double-stranded DNA molecule that is composed of one or more mismatched bases. These mismatched bases can be present at any position of the DNA molecule. A heteroduplex is formed during the phenomenon of crossing over that is responsible for the recombination of the DNA between the two sister chromatids in the process of meiosis.

 


Certain enzymes are present in the cell that is specialized in recognizing and repairing these mismatched bases. So, these bases get repaired prior to their replication. Heteroduplex DNA is also formed during the process of hybridization.

 

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