What is DNA?
Deoxyribonucleic Acid
A molecule called deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, carries the genetic instructions for living organisms. It is essential for growth, reproduction, and functioning of all life forms.
Overview
DNA is a long, spiraling molecule that contains the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. It is made up of smaller units called nucleotides, which are like the letters in a code. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogen base, and the sequence of these bases determines the specific instructions for each organism. When cells divide, they make copies of DNA so that each new cell has the same genetic information. This process is crucial for growth and repair in living things. For example, when you get a cut, your body uses DNA to produce new cells that heal the wound, ensuring that the same genetic information is passed on to the new cells. Understanding DNA is important because it helps scientists learn about heredity, genetics, and evolution. It also plays a key role in medicine, such as in genetic testing and developing treatments for diseases. By studying DNA, researchers can find out how traits are passed from parents to offspring and how certain genetic conditions occur.