It is amazing as to how much information can be packed into our genes. Starting from our physical traits to having the ability to perform higher cognitive functions, it is all governed by our genes. The more you dig deeper into the structure of the gene, the more impossible it seems. DNA exists in the form of a helix and then it is further coiled to pack a great amount into a nucleus. The helix consists of two strands that run parallel to one another, but in opposite directions. One strand is known as the sense strand and the other one is anti-sense strand. Sense strand is usually used for mRNA transcription when making proteins. Each strand is made up of a series of nucleotides: cytosine, guanine, thymine and adenine. Each nucleotide is attached to a phosphate group and a deoxyribose sugar. The nucleotides have specific structures that are similar to one another: cytosine and thymine are the pyramidine bases, while adenine and guanine are the purine bases. The nucleotides have a base pairing rule through which they pair to one another on the two strands: adenine pairs with thymine, and cytosine pairs with guanine. DNA is also self-replicating. When in need of new strands, DNA helicase (an enzyme) breaks the bond between two strands and free nucleotides make new bonds with the two old strands. This process gives rise to two new sets of DNA strands. DNA then forms its helicase again. The process is much more complex and involves other factors.
Recent comments