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Dna: Deoxyribonucleic Acid: Key Features and Functions

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a double-stranded molecule that serves as the genetic blueprint for all living organisms, composed of nucleotides that include a phosphate group, deoxyribose sugar, and nitrogenous bases. It plays a crucial role in encoding genetic information, facilitating protein synthesis, and ensuring genetic replication and variation. The document also highlights the importance of complementary base pairing in DNA structure and function.

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7 views3 pages

Dna: Deoxyribonucleic Acid: Key Features and Functions

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a double-stranded molecule that serves as the genetic blueprint for all living organisms, composed of nucleotides that include a phosphate group, deoxyribose sugar, and nitrogenous bases. It plays a crucial role in encoding genetic information, facilitating protein synthesis, and ensuring genetic replication and variation. The document also highlights the importance of complementary base pairing in DNA structure and function.

Uploaded by

Mohammed afread
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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DNA: DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that carries most of the genetic instructions used in the growth, development,
functioning, and reproduction of all living organisms. It is often called the "genetic blueprint" or the "genetic code" of life.

Key Features and Functions:


1. Molecular Structure: DNA is a long, double-stranded molecule that resembles a twisted ladder or helix, known as the double
helix. Each strand is made up of a chain of nucleotides.
2. Nucleotides: A nucleotide is the basic building block of DNA. Each nucleotide consists of three components:
o A phosphate group
o A deoxyribose sugar molecule
o One of four nitrogenous bases: adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G), or thymine (T).
3. Complementary Base Pairing: The nitrogenous bases in DNA form specific base pairs: adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and
cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G). This complementary base pairing is essential for DNA replication and the transmission of
genetic information.
4. Genetic Information: DNA encodes the genetic information necessary for the synthesis of proteins and the regulation of various
cellular processes. Sequences of nucleotides, known as genes, contain the instructions for building and maintaining an organism.
5. Replication: DNA can replicate itself through a process called DNA replication. During replication, the two strands of the double
helix unwind, and each strand serves as a template for the creation of a new complementary strand. This process ensures that
genetic information is faithfully passed on to daughter cells during cell division.
6. Genetic Variation: DNA is responsible for genetic diversity among individuals. Mutations, which are changes in the DNA
sequence, can lead to variations in traits and are a source of genetic diversity within populations.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DNA AND RNA

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