Question: what is DNA

George Makau answered on 28 May 2019:

DNA, is the short form of deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that contains the genetic code of all organisms including animals, plants, protists, archaea, some viruses and bacteria.

DNA is in each cell in the organism (besides mature red blood cells) and directs cells on what proteins to make. This is how it works… DNA as a template works like a rubber stamp that produces stamps (RNA) that are then translated into proteins which then act as the building blocks of the body (e.g. muscle). Other proteins act mostly as enzymes or hormones.

DNA is inherited by children from their parents. This is why children share traits with their parents, such as skin, hair and eye colour. The DNA in a person is a combination of the DNA from each of their parents.

🙂