DNA synthesis is the process by which cells create new strands of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). This occurs during cell division, allowing genetic information to be copied and passed on to new cells. The process involves enzymes like DNA polymerase, which add nucleotides to a growing DNA strand, following the base-pairing rules. In laboratory settings, DNA synthesis can also refer to the artificial creation of DNA sequences. Scientists use techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify specific DNA segments. This synthetic DNA is crucial for various applications, including genetic research, cloning, and the development of gene therapies.