DNA
The Code of Life
What is DNA?
DNA is deoxyribonucleic acid. It is located in the nucleus. The parts you need to make DNA are a phosphate group, a sugar group and one of four types of nitrogen bases. The structure it looks like is a double helix.
What it's made of
Where it is located
What it looks like
DNA looks like a winding staircase
What does DNA do?
Hereditary traits, like eye color, nose shape and height, are passed on from parent to offspring through genes in the DNA. Before a cell a reproduce it must first replicate, or make a copy of, it's DNA.
Protein synthesis relies on the effective communication of the coded information held in the genes to the sites of protein manufacture, the ribosomes in the cytoplasm.
What is RNA?
Messenger, transfer, and ribosomal types of RNA. What does it do? Copies parts of DNA, only the parts needed. For example, it would not copy information needed for fingernails if it needed one for skin.
DNA Replication Process [3D Animation]
Advancements in DNA research
This page is from Office of Justice Programs