DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is one of two types of molecules that encode genetic information.  DNA is naturally in the form of a double-stranded molecule held together by weak hydrogen bonds between base pairs of nucleotides. The molecule forms what is known as a double helix in which two strands of DNA spiral around each-other.  The double helix looks like an enormously long ladder twisted into a helix, or coil.  A backbone of sugar and phosphate molecules make up the sides of the ladder, and the rungs consist of nucleotide bases joined weakly in the middle by hydrogen bonds.

There are four nucleotides in DNA, with each nucleotide containing a base: adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), or thymine (T).  Base pairs form naturally only between A and T and between G and C so the base sequence of each single strand of DNA can be simply deduced from that of its partner strand.  The genetic code in DNA is in triplets such as AGT. The base sequence of that triplet in the partner strand is therefore TCA.  The order of the bases in the DNA defines the order of amino acids in a protein.  The order of amino acids in a protein dictates the enzymatic or structural activity of the protein which determines the way an organism develops. The DNA sequence found in a cell dictates what enzymes are found there and determines what functions the cell is able to carry out.

With just four letters, the DNA alphabet spells out all of the information required to create new cells and to stay healthy. The sequence of the bases in DNA spell out all of the genetic instructions needed.

Everyday Nutrient Nutraceuticals: Essential Seven

Everyday Nutrient Related Topics: Arteries, Blood Vessels, Cellular Health, Choline, DNA, Essential Amino Acids, Essential Seven, Folic Acid, Free Radicals, Healthy Cells, Heart Supplements, Immune System, Methionine, Methyl Donors, Methyl Groups, Vitamin B12