DNA
The Genetic Blueprint
What is DNA?
DNA is the genetic blueprint of all living things and is made of chemical building blocks called nucleotides. DNA contains the instructions needed for an organism to develop, survive and reproduce.
The picture above shows the double helix structure of DNA. DNA is found in the nucleus and is made of nucleotides which is made of a phosphate group, a sugar group and one of four types of nitrogen bases.
What Does DNA Do?
DNA makes proteins that determine your physical characteristics. DNA is passed down from your parents.
BBC Knowledge Explainer DNA
What is RNA
Ribonucleic acid, a nucleic acid present in all living cells. Its principal role is to act as a messenger carrying instructions from DNA for controlling the synthesis of proteins.
Types of RNA
tRNA
mRNA
rRNA
mRNA
rRNA
What does RNA do
RNA ferries proteins, build proteins and in some cases shut down protein production completely