Chromosomes, DNA and Genes – Fundamentals

Chromosomes, DNA and Genes: Humans, like all other organisms, are composed of cells. At the time of fertilisation, we are all only one cell. As a single cell splits, all genes are duplicated, ensuring that each new cell has a complete set of genetic material: the genome. Given that the human body includes around 10 trillion cells, the technique for copying the DNA is pretty astounding.

The genome is composed of a chemical known as DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, and is structured into chromosomes, each of which contains genes. Read this article to have complete details on Chromosomes, DNA and Genes.

Chromosomes, DNA and Genes

Trillions of cells make up your body. Each cell is a duplicate of a single cell that divides to create all of the cells in your body. Your cells require instructions to become who you are. Your DNA, genes, and chromosomes collaborate to instruct your body on how to build and function. Scroll down to know the complete details.

What is DNA?

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a substance found in every cell of your body that contains your genetic code. It is the instruction manual for your body.

What is DNA made of?

DNA is made up of two strands that loop around each other to generate a double helix shape, like a spiral staircase. Each strand of DNA is made up of four fundamental building units or bases:

• Adenine (A).
• Cytosine (C).
• Thymine (T).
• Guanine (G)

These four bases are arranged to make “words” in your instruction manual. A single gene can have thousands of bases. The molecular machinery of the cell interprets the DNA code three letters at a time. Each three-letter sequence represents a different amino acid: the building blocks of proteins.

These proteins do the majority of the work in cells and are essential for tissue and organ development, function, and regulation. Proteins include keratin in hair, colours in the eyes, and enzymes in the stomach that digest food.

What are Genes?

Genes are the foundation of your body. Genes are portions of DNA that carry the information for making one specific molecule in your body, typically a protein. These proteins regulate how your bodies grow and function; they are also responsible for many of your physical characteristics, such as eye colour, blood type, and height.

How Do I Get Genes?

Genes cannot be purchased in a departmental shop. Your genes are passed down from your parents. Each parent gives you one copy of a gene (one from the egg and one from the sperm). Once you obtain a pair, your genes divide and replicate until your body has enough genes to complete your instruction handbook. Your body contains between 20,000 to 25,000 genes. The genes are divided into 46 units called chromosomes for ease of storage and access.

What Are Chromosomes?

Chromosomes are thread-like structures that exist in the nucleus (core) of cells. One chromosome is made up of one DNA molecule and one protein. Chromosomes vary in size, and proteins known as histones enable them to pack together tiny enough to fit inside a nucleus. Your chromosomes would be as big as we are without them. Chromosomes are the exact guidelines that your cells use to create you.

How Many Chromosomes Do Humans Have?

Humans should have 23 chromosomal pairs (46 total). Chromosomes are divided into 22 numbered pairs (autosomes) and one sex chromosome pair (X and Y). To form a pair, you acquire one chromosome from each parent.

Relationship and Function of Chromosomes, DNA and Genes

Chromosomes, DNA and Genes all add to who you are. In cells, chromosomes transport DNA. DNA is in charge of constructing and maintaining your human structure. Genes are DNA segments that provide you with physical qualities that make you unique. Your body has an entire instruction manual that directs your cells on how to act.

Where is DNA Located?

Each cell in your body contains DNA. The nucleus (centre) of each cell in your body contains the majority of your DNA, although mitochondria contain some (little organelles inside of your cells that produce energy).

What Is a Mutation?

Your DNA can alter or be mutated during your life, resulting in differences in the DNA sequence and possibly affecting the proteins we produce. Mutations can develop naturally as a result of DNA replication errors or as a result of exposure to environmental variables such as smoking, sunshine, or radiation. Mutations can also be passed down when they are present in germ cells, sperm, or eggs.

Mutations can sometimes have a positive impact by increasing genetic variation within a species. Sickle cell anaemia, for example, is generated by a mutation in a gene that holds the directions for generating a protein called haemoglobin, which is essential for the delivery of oxygen in your body. This mutation causes red blood cells to become abnormal, stiff and sickly. Individuals with this mutation suffer difficulty when sickle-shaped red blood cells obstruct the flow of blood, leading to joint pain and other symptoms, but they are also immune to malaria.

What Tests Are Used To Assess the Health of Genes?

Several genetic tests utilise a sample of your blood, skin, hair, or amniotic fluid from a fetus to find alterations to your genes, chromosomes, or proteins in your body. Genetic testing can uncover altered genes and pinpoint specific genetic diseases. If you intend to become pregnant, this test can also tell you if you are at risk of having a child with a genetic disease.

How To Improve the Health of DNA?

Take efforts to take care of your body to increase the health of your DNA, as your DNA is accountable for how you develop and function. You can improve your general health by doing the following:

• Eating a well-balanced diet.
• Exercising.
• Keeping a healthy weight.
• Smoking and the use of tobacco products should be avoided.

Your DNA, genes, and chromosomes are important parts of your body. Despite their small size, these components serve an important role. Maintain the functionality of your DNA, genes, and chromosomes by leading a healthy lifestyle.

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