DNA (A Bio-molecule)
DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid.
DNA is one of the most essential bio-molecules found in living organisms. DNA
is a life-defining molecule. This molecule transfers information from parent to
offspring. It is involved in retaining the genetic information from cell to
cell (mitosis). DNA Replication is a
natural phenomenon which ensures that each dividing cell is receiving the same
and equal amount of information as found in the parental cell.
DNA has three basic elements in its chemical
structure i.e. 5-carbon ribose sugar, Phosphate, and a nitrogenous base. DNA
resides inside the nucleus hence named as deoxyribonucleic acid. Deoxy means
this molecule has 1oxygen less in ribose sugar as compared with RNA. This
characteristic of DNA molecule makes it more stable chemically. The basic
components of DNA are called nucleotides.
If there is any kind of change in the
information being passed by the DNA then this change is termed as mutation.
This may be harmful. It may cause disease in certain cases. If this mutation
occurs in a somatic cell then it is transferred to the next cell. These sorts
of changes leading towards diseases are called as genetic disorders. This
mutation also acts as a raw material to bring about the process of evolution.
The most important property of DNA is
genetic recombination. This property has given rise to a variety of life on the
earth.
In short, DNA is one of the most
fundamental molecules for most of the living beings in this world.
