From DNA to Protein: The Flow of Genetic Information
Classified in Biology
Written at on 
English with a size of 2.6 KB.
DNA Replication
DNA replication begins with the double helix unwinding, separating like a zipper. Each strand serves as a template for creating a new complementary strand. DNA polymerase enzymes add nucleotides one by one, matching adenine with thymine and guanine with cytosine. This process creates two identical DNA molecules, each with one original and one new strand. Errors during replication can lead to mutations, which can be harmless, cause diseases, or contribute to evolution.
The Importance of Base Complementarity
Base complementarity is crucial for accurate DNA replication, ensuring that genetic information is passed correctly from parent to daughter cells. It also forms the basis of many molecular biology techniques.
Gene Expression: From DNA to Protein
Proteins are complex molecules made of amino acids. Their specific sequence and structure determine their function. Proteins play diverse roles, from forming structures to regulating organ functions.
Transcription and Translation
In eukaryotic cells, DNA resides within the nucleus, while protein synthesis occurs in the cytoplasm. RNA acts as the intermediary, carrying genetic information from DNA to ribosomes.
Transcription
RNA polymerase synthesizes a single-stranded RNA molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA) from the DNA template. mRNA uses uracil instead of thymine. This process is called transcription.
Translation
mRNA travels to the cytoplasm and binds to a ribosome. The ribosome reads the mRNA codons (groups of three bases) and matches them to transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules carrying specific amino acids. This process, called translation, builds the protein according to the genetic code.
Key Biological Molecules
| Component | DNA | RNA |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrogenous Base | Adenine (A), Guanine (G), Cytosine (C), Thymine (T) | Adenine (A), Guanine (G), Cytosine (C), Uracil (U) |
| Sugar | Deoxyribose | Ribose |
| Phosphate | Phosphoric Acid | Phosphoric Acid |
Phenotype and Genotype
Phenotype refers to the observable characteristics of an organism, while genotype refers to its genetic makeup (DNA sequence).
Biochemistry
Biochemistry is the study of the chemistry of life, focusing on organic molecules like carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
Chromosomes
Chromosomes are composed of DNA tightly coiled around histone proteins, forming chromatin.