DECODE The Script of LIFE

Dive into the intricate world of DNA and genetic information. Explore the significance of the genetic code in our lives, from medical breakthroughs to unlocking our ancestry, and discover how this knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and heritage. DNA and Genetic Information Greetings, fellow explorers of knowledge. Today, we embark on a journey that is as profound as it is fascinating. We will delve into the intricate realm of DNA and genetic information. Brace yourself for a captivating exploration of the very code that defines life itself. The Essence of DNA: Unveiling the Genetic Code At its core, DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the building block of life. Picture it as nature’s instruction manual, encoding information on how to build, operate, and maintain every living organism on Earth. The double helix structure of DNA, first described by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953, is an iconic symbol of biological complexity. The Alphabet of Life: A, T

  Chromosomes are   molecules of DNA and proteins . They are located in the   nucleus   of the cell and their function is to carry   genes . A   gene   is a part of DNA that contains code for the synthesis of a protein or an RNA molecule. 💡 gene  = a segment of DNA that codes for a protein / an RNA molecule You can think of  genes as  of  recipes  that you use in the kitchen to make various dishes. In the recipe, you'd find ingredients and steps that you need to follow to make your favourite meal. Genes are actually very similar and contain all the instructions on how to make a protein. However, there are also  parts of DNA  that  do not code for any protein  or  an RNA molecule . These  noncoding segments  are sometimes referred to as  junk DNA . Even though these parts of DNA don't contain instructions on the synthesis of a protein, they are still very important, although their precise role remains unknown. 💡 junk DNA  = a segment of DNA that does not code for any protein /

 T he discovery of DNA was one of the most significant findings in the field of science. Today, deeper insight into the DNA structure has unravelled answers to questions that have been around for eons. The Central dogma explains how the DNA codes for the proteins which proceed in three stages, namely, replication, transcription and translation. Once DNA replicates its two strands, the information is copied into RNA by the process called transcription. Let’s learn more about the process of transcription. Table of Contents Definition Explanation RNA Polymerase Stages Initiation Elongation Termination Processing Transcription Definition “Transcription is the first step of gene expression that involves the formation of RNA molecucle from DNA.” What is Transcription? It is one of the first processes in gene expression. The genetic information flows from DNA to protein and this flow of information takes place in a sequential process of transcription and translation. Only one strand of DNA is