DNA
Definition
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is a molecule that carries most of the genetic instructions used in development, functioning and reproduction of all known living organisms.
Analogy
Think about DNA as a cookbook with recipes for making everything in your body. Each recipe represents a gene which provides instructions for creating proteins - essential components for our bodies' structure and function.
Related terms
Chromosome: A long thread-like structure composed primarily of protein and DNA that carries genetic information.
Gene: A segment on the chromosome containing instructions for making specific proteins or sets of proteins.
Double Helix: The shape that two linear strands of DNA assume when bonded together - similar to a twisted ladder or spiral staircase.
"DNA" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (9)
AP Biology - 1.4 Properties of Biological Macromolecules
AP Biology - 1.5 Structure and Function of Biological Macromolecules
AP Biology - 2.10 Cell Compartmentalization
AP Biology - 2.11 Origins of Cell Compartmentalization
AP Biology - 3.2 Enzyme Catalysis
AP Biology - 3.7 Fitness
AP Biology - 4.4 Changes in Signal Transduction Pathways
AP Biology - 5.3 Mendelian Genetics
AP Biology - 5.6 Chromosomal Inheritance
Practice Questions (6)
- DNA forms a ladder-like structure, where the backbone is comprised of phosphates and sugars. The nitrogenous bases connect together as the "rungs" of the ladder. In these rungs, __ binds with thymine using __ hydrogen bonds.
- At which point in the cell cycle is there a checkpoint to ensure DNA was copied correctly and the cell is ready for division?
- Retroviruses are particularly difficult to treat because they possess a special enzyme that allows an alternative flow of information: RNA --> DNA.
- What are the base pairing rules in DNA?
- Changes in the DNA and gene expression will intially affect which area first?
- Changes in the DNA and gene expression will eventually affect:
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