Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)
Definition
DNA is a molecule that carries most of the genetic instructions used in the development, functioning and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses.
Analogy
Think of DNA as a cookbook in your body's kitchen. It contains all the recipes (genes) needed to make different dishes (proteins). The chefs (cell machinery) read these recipes to prepare meals (perform functions).
Related terms
Genes: These are specific sequences of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that are responsible for carrying information to produce proteins.
Chromosomes: These are thread-like structures located inside the nucleus of animal and plant cells. Each chromosome is made up of protein and a single molecule of DNA.
Nucleotide: This is an organic molecule that serves as the subunit, or building block, of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA.
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