What does DNA stand for?

DNA means ‘Deoxyribonucleic acid.' It is a huge molecule that imbibes our unique genetic code. It has all the directives for making the proteins in our bodies. It consists of four chemical bases such as adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine. The sequence of these bases from the directions in the genome( the genetic material of an organism). 

These bases stick together in different combinations with a backbone formulated of sugar and phosphates in a long time. DNA is a two-stranded molecule. It has a shape of a distinctive “double helix” shape such as a twisted bladder. 

Each strand is consists of long sequences of the four bases, A, C, G and T. The bases on one strand of the DNA molecule pair together with complementary bases on the opposite strand of DNA to form the ‘rungs’ of the DNA ‘ladder.' Hydrogen bonds connect each base pair.

(Image Courtesy: What does that stand for?)

How Was The Term DNA Discovered?

DNA was first discovered by German biochemist named Frederich Miescher in the year 1869. But, its importance was not realized for many years. In 1953, the structure of DNA was figured out by James Watson, Francis Crick, Maurice Wilkins and Rosalind Franklin. They realized that it could carry some biological information.

Where Is It Found?

DNA is found in the nucleus. The work of the nucleus is to act as the brain tank of a cell. The function of a cell is to form body tissue such as muscle, skin or body tissue.

What Is Its Function?

The functions of DNA are important for inheritance.

#1. Proteins Coding- It imbibes the code for proteins that are complex molecules that do a big amount of works around our body. Information in the DNA is read and then taken into a messenger molecule. Later, the information provided to the messenger molecule is converted into a language that the body wishes to understand. This language is also known as ‘building blocks of proteins’ and is one of ‘amino acids.’ It is this particular language that tells that how the amino acids should produce a specific protein.

#2. Genetic Code- DNA is pivotal for genetic code since it transfers genetic messages to all the cells in the body. In a reproductive sense, it helps in joining of an egg to the sperm to create your first cell and also the genetic code that your body would use forever.

(Image Courtesy: medivizor)

Did You Know?

Did you know that we share almost the same DNA with a set of animals? Do you know who they are? We share 98 percent of our DNA in our genes with chimpanzees making us closely related to chimps like horses are to zebras. ‘Bonobos Join Chimps’ this animal's DNA is closest to humans.

DNA has a lot of significant roles to play in human bodies and is one of the greatest discoveries of the twentieth century. What do you think about its significance? Feel free to share your views with us on the same.

(Featured Image Courtesy: YouTube)