What are the differences between dNTPs and ddNTPs and how do they impact DNA synthesis?

dNTPs are the building blocks of DNA that allow for the synthesis of new DNA strands during replication. They contain all four bases (A, T, C, G) and have a hydroxyl group at the 3' carbon, which allows for further elongation of the DNA strand.

On the other hand, ddNTPs are chain-terminating nucleotides that lack the 3' hydroxyl group. When incorporated into a growing DNA strand by DNA polymerase, they prevent further elongation, leading to the termination of DNA synthesis.

In summary, dNTPs facilitate DNA synthesis by adding nucleotides to the growing strand, while ddNTPs inhibit DNA synthesis by terminating the strand.