Using Lego bricks to model DNA replication (2015)

Bethany Lau illustrates DNA replication using LEGO bricks to help students grasp concepts like 5'/3' ends and the functions of enzymes in the process. Different colored bricks represent various nucleotides, emphasizing DNA's antiparallel structure and the leading and lagging strands formed during replication. RNA primers and specific protein functions are also explained to add detail beyond typical high school texts.

• LEGO bricks efficiently convey DNA's directional nature.
• A strand has a 5' end and a 3' end like nucleotides.
• DNA polymerase adds nucleotides only to the 3' end.
• Anti-parallel strands result in leading and lagging strands.
• Ligase connects Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand.