DNA: Structure, Function and Discovery

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a molecule that contains the instructions for an organism’s development and characteristics. It is found in the nucleus of cells and is made up of four different types of nucleotides: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). These nucleotides are arranged in a specific order, which determines the genetic code.

The structure of DNA was discovered by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953. They proposed a model of DNA that is known as the “double helix.” This model shows that DNA is made up of two strands that are twisted around each other in a spiral shape. The nucleotides on each strand are paired with each other, with A always pairing with T, and G always pairing with C.

The function of DNA is to store and transmit genetic information. The sequence of nucleotides in DNA determines the sequence of amino acids in proteins. Proteins are essential for the structure and function of cells, and they play a role in almost every process that occurs in the body.

DNA is copied, or replicated, before a cell divides. This ensures that each new cell has its own copy of the genetic information. DNA is also transcribed into RNA, which is then translated into proteins. This process is known as gene expression.

DNA is essential for life. Without DNA, cells would not be able to divide or function properly, and organisms would not be able to reproduce.

What is DNA?

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a molecule that contains the instructions for an organism’s development and characteristics. It is found in the nucleus of cells and is made up of four different types of nucleotides: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). These nucleotides are arranged in a specific order, which determines the genetic code.

The genetic code is read by cells to produce proteins. Proteins are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of cells. They are involved in a wide range of processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction.

DNA is replicated before a cell divides, so that each new cell has its own copy of the genetic code. This process is essential for the continuity of life.

DNA is also responsible for the variation between individuals within a species. This variation is caused by mutations, which are changes in the DNA sequence. Mutations can be caused by a variety of factors, including environmental factors such as radiation and chemicals, and errors during DNA replication.

Mutations can have a variety of effects on an organism. Some mutations are harmful, causing genetic diseases such as cancer and sickle cell anemia. Other mutations are beneficial, allowing organisms to adapt to their environment. For example, a mutation that increases an organism’s resistance to a disease can help it to survive and reproduce.

DNA is a complex molecule that plays a vital role in life. It is the blueprint for an organism’s development and characteristics, and it is essential for the continuity of life.

Here are some examples of how DNA is used in organisms:

• In humans, DNA determines our eye color, hair color, and other physical characteristics.
• In plants, DNA controls the plant’s growth, flowering, and fruit production.
• In animals, DNA determines the animal’s behavior, diet, and other characteristics.

DNA is also used in a variety of technologies, including:

• Genetic engineering, which allows scientists to change the DNA of organisms.
• DNA fingerprinting, which is used to identify individuals.
• DNA sequencing, which is used to determine the order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule.

DNA is a powerful tool that has the potential to revolutionize medicine and technology. As our understanding of DNA continues to grow, we will be able to use it to improve our lives in many ways.

Who Discovered DNA?

Who Discovered DNA?

The discovery of DNA, the molecule that carries genetic information, is a fascinating story that spans several decades and involves the contributions of numerous scientists. Here’s a more detailed account of the key players and their roles in this groundbreaking discovery:

Friedrich Miescher (1869):

• Swiss biochemist Friedrich Miescher is often credited as the first person to isolate DNA.
• While studying the chemical composition of white blood cells, he identified a substance rich in phosphorus and nitrogen that he named “nuclein.”
• Miescher’s discovery laid the foundation for further research on the chemical nature of DNA.

Albrecht Kossel (1870s-1880s):

• German biochemist Albrecht Kossel continued Miescher’s work and conducted extensive studies on the composition of nuclein.
• He identified several nitrogenous bases, including adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine, which are now known as the building blocks of DNA.

Phoebus Levene (1910s):

• Russian-American biochemist Phoebus Levene made significant contributions to understanding the structure of DNA.
• He proposed that DNA consists of a repeating chain of nucleotides, each composed of a nitrogenous base, a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), and a phosphate group.
• Levene’s “tetranucleotide hypothesis” was a crucial step toward unraveling the structure of DNA.

Oswald Avery, Colin MacLeod, and Maclyn McCarty (1944):

• In a landmark experiment known as the “Avery-MacLeod-McCarty experiment,” these American scientists demonstrated that DNA is the genetic material.
• They extracted DNA from a strain of bacteria that caused pneumonia and transformed a harmless strain into a disease-causing one by introducing the extracted DNA.
• This experiment provided strong evidence that DNA carries hereditary information.

Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins (1950s):

• British chemist Rosalind Franklin and British biophysicist Maurice Wilkins played crucial roles in determining the structure of DNA.
• Using X-ray crystallography, Franklin obtained high-quality X-ray diffraction patterns of DNA fibers, which provided valuable insights into its molecular structure.
• Wilkins also contributed to the understanding of DNA structure through his X-ray diffraction studies.

James Watson and Francis Crick (1953):

• American biologist James Watson and British physicist Francis Crick are widely recognized for their groundbreaking discovery of the double helix structure of DNA.
• Based on Franklin’s X-ray diffraction data and their own research, Watson and Crick proposed a model of DNA as a double helix, with two strands twisted around each other in a spiral shape.
• The double helix model revolutionized our understanding of genetics and laid the foundation for modern molecular biology.

In summary, the discovery of DNA involved the contributions of numerous scientists over several decades. Key figures like Friedrich Miescher, Albrecht Kossel, Phoebus Levene, Oswald Avery, Colin MacLeod, Maclyn McCarty, Rosalind Franklin, Maurice Wilkins, James Watson, and Francis Crick played pivotal roles in unraveling the nature, composition, and structure of DNA, leading to a profound understanding of genetics and the basis of life.

DNA Diagram

DNA Diagram

A DNA diagram is a visual representation of the structure of a DNA molecule. It shows the arrangement of the four nitrogenous bases that make up the DNA code: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C).

DNA diagrams can be used to represent the structure of a single gene, a chromosome, or an entire genome. They can also be used to show the differences between different DNA sequences.

Types of DNA Diagrams

There are two main types of DNA diagrams:

• Linear diagrams show the DNA sequence as a straight line. The nitrogenous bases are represented by letters (A, T, G, C) or by colored bars.
• Circular diagrams show the DNA sequence as a circle. The nitrogenous bases are represented by letters (A, T, G, C) or by colored wedges.

Examples of DNA Diagrams

The following are examples of DNA diagrams:

• Image of a linear DNA diagram
• Image of a circular DNA diagram

Uses of DNA Diagrams

DNA diagrams are used for a variety of purposes, including:

• To study the structure of genes and chromosomes. DNA diagrams can be used to identify the location of genes and other important DNA features.
• To compare different DNA sequences. DNA diagrams can be used to identify similarities and differences between different DNA sequences. This information can be used to study evolution and to identify genetic diseases.
• To design DNA-based technologies. DNA diagrams can be used to design DNA-based technologies, such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and DNA sequencing.

Conclusion

DNA diagrams are a powerful tool for studying the structure and function of DNA. They are used in a variety of fields, including genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology.

DNA Structure

DNA Structure

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that contains the instructions for an organism’s development and characteristics. It is found in the nucleus of cells and is made up of four different types of nucleotides: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). These nucleotides are arranged in a specific order, which determines the genetic code.

The DNA molecule is a double helix, which means that it consists of two strands that are twisted around each other. The two strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between the nucleotides. The A nucleotides on one strand always pair with the T nucleotides on the other strand, and the G nucleotides on one strand always pair with the C nucleotides on the other strand. This is known as the base pairing rule.

The DNA molecule is divided into genes, which are specific regions of DNA that code for a particular protein. Proteins are essential for the structure and function of cells, and they play a role in almost every process that occurs in the body.

The DNA structure was first discovered by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953. Their discovery was a major breakthrough in biology, and it has led to a greater understanding of how organisms work.

Examples of DNA Structure

The DNA structure can be seen in a variety of organisms, including humans, animals, plants, and bacteria. The following are some examples of DNA structure:

• Human DNA: The human genome consists of approximately 3 billion base pairs of DNA. This DNA is organized into 23 chromosomes, which are located in the nucleus of cells.
• Animal DNA: The DNA of animals is similar to human DNA, but there are some differences in the base pair sequence. These differences account for the different characteristics of different animals.
• Plant DNA: The DNA of plants is also similar to human DNA, but there are some differences in the base pair sequence. These differences account for the different characteristics of different plants.
• Bacterial DNA: The DNA of bacteria is much simpler than the DNA of humans, animals, and plants. Bacterial DNA typically consists of a single circular chromosome.

The Importance of DNA Structure

The DNA structure is essential for life. It contains the instructions for an organism’s development and characteristics, and it is responsible for the production of proteins. Without DNA, organisms would not be able to survive.

The DNA structure is also important for evolution. Over time, the DNA of organisms can change through mutations. These mutations can lead to new characteristics, which can be beneficial or harmful. Beneficial mutations can help organisms to adapt to their environment and survive, while harmful mutations can lead to disease or death.

The study of DNA structure is a complex and challenging field, but it is also a very important one. By understanding the DNA structure, scientists can learn more about how organisms work and how they evolve. This knowledge can be used to develop new treatments for diseases, improve crop yields, and create new technologies.

Chargaff’s Rule

Chargaff’s Rule

Chargaff’s rule states that in any DNA molecule, the amount of adenine (A) is equal to the amount of thymine (T), and the amount of guanine (G) is equal to the amount of cytosine (C). This rule was first proposed by Erwin Chargaff in 1947, based on his analysis of the composition of DNA from various organisms.

Chargaff’s rule can be explained by the fact that DNA is a double helix, with two strands of nucleotides held together by hydrogen bonds. Adenine and thymine form two hydrogen bonds, while guanine and cytosine form three hydrogen bonds. This means that A and T are complementary bases, and G and C are complementary bases.

The following table shows the base composition of DNA from various organisms:

Organism	A (%)	T (%)	G (%)	C (%)
Human	30.9	29.4	19.9	19.8
Escherichia coli	24.7	23.6	26.0	25.7
Saccharomyces cerevisiae	31.3	32.9	18.7	17.1

As you can see, the base composition of DNA varies from organism to organism, but Chargaff’s rule is always true. The amount of A is equal to the amount of T, and the amount of G is equal to the amount of C.

Chargaff’s rule has several important implications. First, it suggests that the genetic code is universal. If the base composition of DNA were not the same in all organisms, then the genetic code would not be able to be read in the same way by all organisms. Second, Chargaff’s rule provides evidence for the double helix structure of DNA. If DNA were not a double helix, then the hydrogen bonding between A and T and between G and C would not be possible.

Chargaff’s rule is a fundamental principle of molecular biology. It has played an important role in our understanding of the structure and function of DNA, and it continues to be used by scientists today to study the genetics of organisms.

DNA Replication

DNA Replication

DNA replication is the process by which a cell duplicates its DNA. It occurs during cell division and is essential for the transmission of genetic information to daughter cells.

The process of DNA replication is complex and involves many proteins and enzymes. It can be divided into three main steps:

1. Initiation
2. Elongation
3. Termination

Initiation

The initiation of DNA replication occurs at specific locations on the DNA molecule called origins of replication. In bacteria, there is a single origin of replication, while in eukaryotes, there are multiple origins of replication.

At each origin of replication, two replication forks are formed. A replication fork is a Y-shaped structure that consists of two DNA strands that are being separated by an enzyme called helicase.

Elongation

Once the replication forks have been formed, the process of elongation can begin. Elongation is carried out by an enzyme called DNA polymerase. DNA polymerase adds new nucleotides to the growing DNA strands, using the existing DNA strands as templates.

The nucleotides that are added to the growing DNA strands are complementary to the nucleotides on the template strands. This means that if the template strand has an A nucleotide, the new strand will have a T nucleotide, and vice versa.

Termination

The process of elongation continues until the entire DNA molecule has been replicated. When replication is complete, the two new DNA strands are identical to each other and to the original DNA molecule.

Examples of DNA Replication

DNA replication occurs in all living cells. Some examples of DNA replication include:

• In bacteria, DNA replication occurs during the process of binary fission. Binary fission is a type of cell division in which one cell divides into two identical daughter cells.
• In eukaryotes, DNA replication occurs during the process of mitosis. Mitosis is a type of cell division in which one cell divides into two identical daughter cells.
• In meiosis, DNA replication occurs during the process of meiosis I. Meiosis is a type of cell division that produces gametes (eggs and sperm).

DNA replication is an essential process for all living cells. It ensures that each daughter cell receives a complete copy of the DNA from the parent cell.

DNA Function

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that contains the instructions for an organism’s development and characteristics. It is found in the nucleus of cells and is made up of four different types of nucleotides: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). These nucleotides are arranged in a specific order, which determines the genetic code.

The genetic code is read by cells to produce proteins. Proteins are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of cells. They are involved in a wide variety of cellular processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction.

The process of protein synthesis begins with transcription. During transcription, a section of DNA is copied into a molecule of messenger RNA (mRNA). The mRNA is then transported to the cytoplasm, where it is translated into a protein. Translation is the process of converting the genetic code in mRNA into a sequence of amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.

The DNA function can be better understood with the following examples:

1. Eye Color: The color of a person’s eyes is determined by the genes they inherit from their parents. These genes control the production of melanin, a pigment that gives color to the eyes. People with brown eyes have more melanin than people with blue eyes.

2. Blood Type: A person’s blood type is also determined by their genes. There are four main blood types: A, B, AB, and O. Each blood type is associated with a specific combination of antigens and antibodies. Antigens are proteins that are found on the surface of red blood cells. Antibodies are proteins that are produced by the immune system to attack foreign substances.

3. Genetic Diseases: Some diseases are caused by mutations in DNA. Mutations are changes in the sequence of nucleotides in DNA. These changes can disrupt the production of proteins, which can lead to disease. For example, sickle cell anemia is a genetic disease that is caused by a mutation in the gene that codes for the beta-globin protein. Beta-globin is a component of hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells. The mutation in the beta-globin gene causes the production of a defective hemoglobin protein, which leads to the formation of sickle-shaped red blood cells. Sickle-shaped red blood cells can block blood vessels, which can cause pain, tissue damage, and organ failure.

DNA is a complex molecule that plays a vital role in the life of all organisms. It is the blueprint for an organism’s development and characteristics. By understanding how DNA works, scientists can better understand how organisms function and how diseases develop.

Why DNA is called a Polynucleotide Molecule?

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is called a polynucleotide molecule because it is composed of a chain of nucleotides. Nucleotides are the basic building blocks of DNA and RNA, and each nucleotide consists of a nitrogenous base, a deoxyribose sugar, and a phosphate group. The nitrogenous bases are adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). These bases pair with each other to form base pairs, which are the fundamental units of genetic information.

The deoxyribose sugar is a five-carbon sugar that gives DNA its name. The phosphate group is a negatively charged molecule that helps to stabilize the DNA molecule.

DNA molecules are typically very long, and they can contain millions of nucleotides. The sequence of nucleotides in a DNA molecule determines the genetic information that is stored in the molecule. This information is used by cells to produce proteins, which are essential for the structure and function of the cell.

Here are some examples of polynucleotide molecules:

• DNA: DNA is a double-stranded polynucleotide molecule that is found in the nucleus of cells. It contains the genetic information that is passed from parents to offspring.
• RNA: RNA is a single-stranded polynucleotide molecule that is found in the cytoplasm of cells. It is used to translate the genetic information in DNA into proteins.
• mRNA: mRNA (messenger RNA) is a type of RNA that carries the genetic information from the nucleus to the cytoplasm.
• tRNA: tRNA (transfer RNA) is a type of RNA that helps to bring amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis.
• rRNA: rRNA (ribosomal RNA) is a type of RNA that is found in ribosomes, where protein synthesis takes place.

Polynucleotide molecules are essential for life. They store and transmit the genetic information that is necessary for cells to function and reproduce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the structure of DNA?

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that contains the instructions for an organism’s development and characteristics. It is found in the nucleus of cells and is made up of four different types of nucleotides: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). These nucleotides are arranged in a specific order, which determines the genetic code.

The structure of DNA is often compared to a twisted ladder. The sides of the ladder are made up of alternating sugar and phosphate molecules, while the rungs of the ladder are made up of pairs of nitrogenous bases. The nitrogenous bases are always paired in the same way: A with T, and G with C. This pairing is known as complementary base pairing.

The double helix structure of DNA was first discovered by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953. Their discovery was based on X-ray crystallography studies of DNA fibers. The double helix structure has since been confirmed by many other experiments.

The structure of DNA is essential for its function. The double helix structure allows DNA to be copied accurately during cell division. It also allows DNA to be transcribed into RNA, which is then used to make proteins. Proteins are the building blocks of cells and are essential for all cellular functions.

Here are some examples of how the structure of DNA affects its function:

• The double helix structure allows DNA to be copied accurately during cell division. When a cell divides, it must make a copy of its DNA so that each daughter cell has its own copy of the genetic code. The double helix structure makes this process possible because the two strands of DNA can be separated and each strand can serve as a template for the synthesis of a new strand.
• The structure of DNA allows DNA to be transcribed into RNA. Transcription is the process of copying the genetic code from DNA into RNA. RNA is a single-stranded molecule that is similar to DNA, but it contains uracil (U) instead of thymine (T). The structure of DNA allows RNA polymerasee, the enzyme that synthesizes RNA, to bind to the DNA and read the genetic code.
• The structure of DNA allows DNA to be repaired. DNA is constantly being damaged by environmental factors, such as radiation and chemicals. The structure of DNA allows DNA repair enzymes to bind to the damaged DNA and repair the damage.

The structure of DNA is a complex and fascinating molecule that is essential for life. It is a testament to the power of science that we have been able to understand the structure of DNA and how it functions.

What are the three different types of DNA?

The three different types of DNA are:

1. A-DNA (Right-handed double helix)

• A-DNA is a right-handed double helix, but it has a shorter pitch and a wider diameter than B-DNA.
• It is found in dehydrated conditions, such as in the nucleosomes of chromatin.

2. B-DNA (Right-handed double helix)

• B-DNA is the most common form of DNA.
• It is a right-handed double helix with a pitch of 10 base pairs per turn and a diameter of 20 angstroms.
• B-DNA is found in most living organisms, including humans.

3. Z-DNA (Left-handed double helix)

• Z-DNA is a left-handed double helix.
• It is found in regions of DNA that are rich in cytosine and guanine nucleotides.
• Z-DNA is thought to play a role in gene regulation.

Here are some examples of the different types of DNA:

• A-DNA is found in the nucleosomes of chromatin.
• B-DNA is found in most living organisms, including humans.
• Z-DNA is found in regions of DNA that are rich in cytosine and guanine nucleotides.

The different types of DNA have different structures and functions. A-DNA is a compact form of DNA that is found in dehydrated conditions. B-DNA is the most common form of DNA and is found in most living organisms. Z-DNA is a left-handed double helix that is thought to play a role in gene regulation.

How is Z-DNA different from other forms of DNA?

Z-DNA is a unique structural conformation of DNA that differs from the more common B-DNA and A-DNA forms. Here are the key differences between Z-DNA and other DNA forms:

Structural Differences:

1. Left-Handed Helix: Z-DNA adopts a left-handed double helix structure, in contrast to the right-handed helices of B-DNA and A-DNA. This difference in handedness gives Z-DNA a zigzag appearance.

2. Base Pairing: In Z-DNA, the base pairs are rotated approximately 180 degrees compared to B-DNA. This rotation results in a unique pattern of hydrogen bonding between the bases, known as the CGCGCG sequence.

3. Sugar-Phosphate Backbone: The sugar-phosphate backbone of Z-DNA has a zigzag conformation, which is distinct from the regular backbone structures of B-DNA and A-DNA.

Biological Significance:

1. Gene Regulation: Z-DNA has been implicated in the regulation of gene expression. It can form in specific regions of DNA, such as promoter regions, and influence the accessibility of these regions to transcription factors and RNA polymerasee.

2. DNA Repair: Z-DNA may play a role in DNA repair mechanisms. It has been observed that Z-DNA can form at sites of DNA damage, potentially facilitating the repair process.

3. Genetic Diseases: Aberrant formation of Z-DNA has been associated with certain genetic diseases, such as myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). In DM1, the expansion of a specific DNA sequence leads to the formation of stable Z-DNA structures, which interfere with gene expression and cause disease symptoms.

Examples:

1. Poly(dG-dC) Sequences: Synthetic DNA polymers containing alternating dG and dC nucleotides, such as poly(dG-dC), readily adopt the Z-DNA conformation under physiological conditions.

2. Natural Z-DNA Sequences: Certain regions of naturally occurring DNA, particularly those rich in alternating purine-pyrimidine sequences (e.g., dCGCGCG), have the potential to form Z-DNA structures.

In summary, Z-DNA is a unique structural form of DNA that differs from B-DNA and A-DNA in terms of its left-handed helix, rotated base pairs, and zigzag backbone. It has biological significance in gene regulation, DNA repair, and is associated with certain genetic diseases. Understanding the properties and roles of Z-DNA contributes to our knowledge of DNA structure and function.

What are the Functions of DNA?

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that contains the instructions for an organism’s development and characteristics. It is found in the nucleus of cells and is made up of four different types of nucleotides: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). These nucleotides are arranged in a specific order, which determines the genetic code.

The Functions of DNA are as follows:

1. Storage of genetic information: DNA stores the genetic information that is necessary for an organism to develop and function. This information includes the instructions for making proteins, which are the building blocks of cells.
2. Replication: DNA is able to replicate itself, which is essential for cell division and the growth and development of organisms.
3. Transcription: DNA is transcribed into RNA, which is then used to make proteins.
4. Translation: RNA is translated into proteins, which are the functional molecules of cells.
5. Mutation: DNA can undergo mutations, which are changes in the sequence of nucleotides. Mutations can be caused by a variety of factors, including environmental factors such as radiation and chemicals, and errors during DNA replication. Mutations can have a variety of effects, including altering the function of proteins or causing genetic diseases.
6. Gene expression: DNA controls the expression of genes, which are the functional units of DNA. Gene expression is the process by which the information in DNA is used to direct the synthesis of proteins.

Here are some examples of how DNA functions in organisms:

• In humans, DNA determines the color of our eyes, hair, and skin.
• In plants, DNA determines the size, shape, and color of flowers.
• In animals, DNA determines the behavior and instincts of the organism.

DNA is a complex molecule that plays a vital role in the life of all organisms. It is the blueprint for our development and characteristics, and it is essential for our survival.

What type of DNA is found in humans?

Types of DNA in Humans

Humans, like all other organisms, have deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) as their genetic material. DNA is a double-stranded molecule that contains the instructions for all of the proteins that are made in the body. There are three main types of DNA found in humans:

1. Nuclear DNA: This is the most common type of DNA and is found in the nucleus of cells. Nuclear DNA contains the instructions for all of the proteins that are made in the body.
2. Mitochondrial DNA: This type of DNA is found in the mitochondria, which are small organelles that produce energy for the cell. Mitochondrial DNA contains the instructions for a small number of proteins that are involved in energy production.
3. Chloroplast DNA: This type of DNA is found in the chloroplasts, which are organelles that perform photosynthesis in plant cells. Chloroplast DNA contains the instructions for a small number of proteins that are involved in photosynthesis.

Examples of DNA in Humans

Here are some examples of how DNA is used in humans:

• Eye color: The color of a person’s eyes is determined by the genes that they inherit from their parents. These genes control the production of melanin, which is a pigment that gives color to the eyes.
• Blood type: A person’s blood type is also determined by the genes that they inherit from their parents. These genes control the production of antigens, which are proteins that are found on the surface of red blood cells.
• Disease susceptibility: Some people are more susceptible to certain diseases than others due to the genes that they inherit. For example, people who inherit a certain gene mutation are more likely to develop cystic fibrosis.

DNA is a complex molecule that contains a vast amount of information. Scientists are still learning about all of the ways that DNA is used in humans, but it is clear that this molecule plays a vital role in our health and well-being.