DNA: Structure and function lab report write up
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:
The genome is the complete genetic material within a cell or organism, which includes not only DNA but also RNA molecules. The genome can be divided into segments called genes that carry the information required to produce proteins.
DNA Structure:
The structure of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a double helix composed of nucleotides, which are made up of three components: a phosphate group, a sugar molecule, and a nitrogenous base. There are four nitrogenous bases in DNA: adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T). The nitrogenous bases pair up in a specific way – A only bonds with T, and G only bonds with C. This base pairing creates rungs on the DNA ladder and provides a code for genetic information.
Genome Components:
Genomes contain all the genetic information required to build and maintain an organism. The genome consists of chromosomes, which are long, coiled-up DNA molecules. The number of chromosomes can vary between species, with humans having 23 pairs of chromosomes. Each chromosome contains many genes that can code for proteins, as well as non-coding regions of DNA that have regulatory functions.
DNA Replication:
DNA replication is the process of copying DNA prior to cell division or protein synthesis. During DNA replication, the double-stranded DNA molecule unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the complementary base pairing of new nucleotides. The result is two identical copies of the DNA molecule, with each new molecule containing one original strand and one newly synthesized strand.
Protein Synthesis:
Protein synthesis is the process by which the genetic information contained within DNA is used to synthesize new proteins. Protein synthesis occurs in two stages: transcription and translation. During transcription, the information contained within a gene is transcribed into mRNA (messenger RNA), a molecule that is used to carry the genetic code from DNA to ribosomes. During translation, the mRNA is read by the ribosomes, and tRNA (transfer RNA) molecules bring amino acids to the ribosome to be assembled into a new protein molecule.
Conclusion:
In summary, the genome is the complete set of genetic information required to build and maintain an organism. DNA is the primary component of the genome, composed of a double helix structure that is made up of nucleotides. DNA replication creates new copies of the genetic material, and the information within DNA is used to synthesize new proteins through protein synthesis. The structure, function, and regulation of DNA are critical to understanding the genetic basis of life.