DNA
Why do you have your mom's eyes or your dad's hair color? The answer is in your DNA.
Deoxyribonucleic acid, in short, DNA, is the blueprint for your body. It carries instructions that tell your cells how to grow, repair, and function.
DNA is located in the nucleus, a central compartment that acts like the cell's control center. In some organisms, like bacteria, DNA floats freely in the cytoplasm because they lack a nucleus.
DNA is made of small subunits called nucleotides. Each nucleotide has three parts: a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
There are four types of nitrogenous bases: Adenine, Thymine, Cytosine, and Guanine, which pair up in a specific way: Adenine pairs with Thymine, and Cytosine pairs with Guanine.
DNA is arranged in a long, coiled structure called a double helix, which is a popular image you might have seen already.
The sequence of the nitrogenous bases in DNA has the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. These instructions are like a code that determines our physical appearance. We call these codes genes.
DNA
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for all living organisms. It determines an organism’s traits by encoding information in a sequence of four chemical bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). These bases form a double-helix structure, with A pairing with T and C pairing with G. DNA is found in the nucleus of cells and plays a crucial role in inheritance, cell function, and evolution.DNA research allows scientists to investigate genetic disorders, enhance forensic techniques, and create novel medical therapies.
Science and Engineering Practices (SEP): Developing and Using Models
Scientists develop and use models to describe how DNA functions at the molecular level and to predict how genetic instructions are passed from one generation to the next. These models help explain how genes regulate biological processes and interact within cells. By studying DNA structures, scientists can design experiments, test genetic hypotheses, and advance medical innovations such as gene therapy and biotechnology.
By analyzing DNA sequences, scientists gain insight into how genes are inherited, how mutations affect organisms, and how genetic disorders develop. DNA research also drives progress in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology, helping to improve treatments and enhance food production.
Activity Ideas:
- Modeling DNA Structure – Create a 3D model of the DNA double helix using paper, beads, or other craft materials to illustrate the base-pairing rules.
- Extracting DNA from Fruit – Perform an experiment using rubbing alcohol, soap (dish detergent), and salt to extract and observe DNA from fruits like strawberries or bananas.
Crosscutting Concept (CCC): Structure and Function
DNA is a complex molecule whose structure is directly related to its function. Scientists use models to study DNA’s shape, organization, and interactions to understand its role in inheritance and cellular processes.
- Structure: DNA’s double-helix shape allows it to store genetic information efficiently while maintaining stability. The arrangement of base pairs (A-T and C-G) ensures accurate replication and transmission of genetic instructions.
- Function: DNA carries instructions that determine traits, direct cellular processes, and regulate protein production. Mutations or changes in DNA sequences can alter these functions, leading to variations in traits or genetic disorders.
- Interaction: DNA interacts with other cellular components, such as RNA and proteins, to regulate growth, repair, and reproduction. Understanding these interactions helps scientists develop medical treatments and improve genetic engineering techniques.
Why do you have your mom's eyes or your dad's hair color? The answer is in your DNA.
Deoxyribonucleic acid, in short, DNA, is the blueprint for your body. It carries instructions that tell your cells how to grow, repair, and function.
DNA is located in the nucleus, a central compartment that acts like the cell's control center. In some organisms, like bacteria, DNA floats freely in the cytoplasm because they lack a nucleus.
DNA is made of small subunits called nucleotides. Each nucleotide has three parts: a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
There are four types of nitrogenous bases: Adenine, Thymine, Cytosine, and Guanine, which pair up in a specific way: Adenine pairs with Thymine, and Cytosine pairs with Guanine.
DNA is arranged in a long, coiled structure called a double helix, which is a popular image you might have seen already.
The sequence of the nitrogenous bases in DNA has the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. These instructions are like a code that determines our physical appearance. We call these codes genes.
Why do you have your mom's eyes or your dad's hair color? The answer is in your DNA.
Deoxyribonucleic acid, in short, DNA, is the blueprint for your body. It carries instructions that tell your cells how to grow, repair, and function.
DNA is located in the nucleus, a central compartment that acts like the cell's control center. In some organisms, like bacteria, DNA floats freely in the cytoplasm because they lack a nucleus.
DNA is made of small subunits called nucleotides. Each nucleotide has three parts: a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
There are four types of nitrogenous bases: Adenine, Thymine, Cytosine, and Guanine, which pair up in a specific way: Adenine pairs with Thymine, and Cytosine pairs with Guanine.
DNA is arranged in a long, coiled structure called a double helix, which is a popular image you might have seen already.
The sequence of the nitrogenous bases in DNA has the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. These instructions are like a code that determines our physical appearance. We call these codes genes.
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