Genetic information

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Genetic Information is the hereditary material in all living organisms that is encoded in the DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid). It is responsible for the transmission of traits from parents to offspring.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Genetic information is stored in the sequence of nucleotides found on molecules of DNA and RNA. These nucleotides include adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine in DNA, and adenine, guanine, cytosine, and uracil in RNA. The sequence of these nucleotides forms the genetic code, which is interpreted by cells to produce proteins, the building blocks of life.

DNA and RNA[edit | edit source]

DNA and RNA are the two types of nucleic acids that carry genetic information. DNA is a double-stranded molecule that forms a double helix, while RNA is usually a single-stranded molecule. DNA is found in the nucleus of cells, while RNA is found both in the nucleus and in the cytoplasm.

Genetic Code[edit | edit source]

The genetic code is the set of rules by which information encoded in genetic material is translated into proteins by living cells. The code defines how sequences of nucleotide triplets, called codons, specify which amino acid will be added next during protein synthesis.

Genetic Variation[edit | edit source]

Genetic variation is the difference in DNA sequences between individuals within a population. It is the source of variation in traits among individuals. Genetic variation can be caused by mutation, gene flow, genetic drift, and natural selection.

Genetic Disorders[edit | edit source]

Genetic disorders are diseases that are caused by abnormalities in an individual's genome. These disorders can be caused by a single mutation in a single gene, or by complex interactions between multiple genes and environmental factors.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Genetic information Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD