DNA: Structure and function lab report write up answering : where can DNA be found in the body, what is DNA made of and what is the DNA code?
Describe the organization and components of a genome
Recognize and interpret visual representations of DNA and nucleotide structure, including base pairing rules.
Broadly relate DNA coding and protein synthesis
Introduction:
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, can be found in all living organisms and is responsible for storing genetic information that is passed down from generation to generation. In this lab report, we will discuss where DNA can be found in the body, what it is made of, and what the DNA code is. Additionally, we will describe the organization and components of a genome, as well as the relationship between DNA coding and protein synthesis.
Where Can DNA be Found in the Body:
DNA can be found in the nucleus of almost all of the cells in the body, as this is where genetic material is stored. Additionally, DNA can also be found in the mitochondria, which are the energy-producing organelles in cells. Certain cells, like red blood cells, do not have a nucleus, so they do not contain DNA.
What is DNA Made of:
DNA is made up of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of nucleic acids. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The sugar and phosphate molecules form the backbone of DNA, while the nitrogenous bases pair together to form the rungs of the DNA ladder. The nitrogenous bases include adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine.
What is the DNA Code:
The DNA code is the sequence of nitrogenous bases in DNA, which determines the genetic information that is stored in the molecule. The code is read in groups of three bases, called codons, and each codon corresponds to a specific amino acid. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, so the DNA code ultimately determines the sequence of amino acids in a protein.
Organization and Components of a Genome:
A genome is the complete set of an organism’s DNA, including all of its genes. Genes are specific sequences of DNA that code for a particular trait or function. Genes are found on chromosomes, which are large structures made up of tightly coiled DNA. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46. The genome also includes non-coding DNA, which does not code for proteins but may have other important functions.
Relationship Between DNA Coding and Protein Synthesis:
Protein synthesis is the process by which cells make proteins, which are essential for a wide variety of cellular functions. Protein synthesis begins with the DNA code, which is transcribed into RNA. RNA serves as a template for the production of proteins, with each codon in the RNA sequence corresponding to a specific amino acid. The amino acids are then assembled into a protein chain, through a process called translation.
Conclusion:
DNA is an essential molecule that is responsible for storing genetic information in all living organisms. It is composed of nucleotides, which form a double helix structure with nitrogenous base pairs. The DNA code determines the sequence of amino acids in proteins, which are essential for cellular function. The organization of DNA into chromosomes and genes contributes to the complexity of the genome. Understanding the relationship between DNA and protein synthesis is crucial for understanding the underlying processes of life.