What is the role of ligase in DNA replication?

Ligase plays a crucial role in the process of DNA replication, particularly in the synthesis of the lagging strand. During DNA replication, the two strands of the double helix are separated, allowing for the synthesis of new strands. The lagging strand is synthesized discontinuously in short segments known as Okazaki fragments. After these fragments are created, ligase is responsible for joining them together to form a continuous DNA strand.

This joining process is vital because it ensures that the newly synthesized DNA is complete and accurately reflects the original template strand. Without ligase, the Okazaki fragments would remain as separate pieces, and the integrity of the replicated DNA would be compromised. Therefore, ligase's primary function of connecting these fragments is essential for the fidelity of DNA replication and the overall maintenance of genetic information.