DNA Reading Resource 1
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kuroocat180223DNA Reading Resource 1
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kuroocat180223The Basics of DNA: The Blueprint of Life
What is DNA?
DNA, which stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, is a remarkable molecule
found in all living organisms. It serves as the instruction manual for life,
containing the genetic information that determines an organism's
characteristics and functions.
The Structure of DNA
DNA has a unique structure often described as a "double helix." Imagine
a twisted ladder or a spiral staircase. The sides of this ladder are made up
of sugar and phosphate molecules, while the rungs are formed by pairs
of chemicals called nitrogenous bases. There are four types of
nitrogenous bases in DNA:
1. Adenine (A)
2. Thymine (T)
3. Guanine (G)
4. Cytosine (C)
These bases always pair up in a specific way: A always pairs with T, and G
always pairs with C. This is called complementary base pairing.
DNA's Role in Living Organisms
DNA plays several crucial roles in living organisms:
1. Genetic Information Storage: DNA stores all the instructions needed to build and maintain an organism.
2. Heredity: When organisms reproduce, they pass on their DNA to their offspring, ensuring the continuation of
genetic traits.
3. Protein Production: DNA contains the instructions for making proteins, which are essential for the structure and
function of cells.
4. Cell Division: Before a cell divides, it must make a copy of its DNA to pass on to the new cell.
DNA in Different Organisms
While all living things have DNA, the amount and organization can vary:
- Humans have about 3 billion base pairs of DNA.
- A grain of rice has about 430 million base pairs.
- E. coli bacteria have about 4.6 million base pairs.
Despite these differences, the basic structure and function of DNA remain the same across all life forms, highlighting
the unity of life on Earth.
Understanding DNA is key to unlocking many mysteries in biology, from how organisms evolve to how we can treat
genetic diseases. As you continue to learn about genetics, remember that this amazing molecule is at the heart of
what makes you uniquely you!
