Gene
DNA sequence for protein
A gene is a sequence of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) that contains instructions for the production of a specific protein or a functional RNA molecule. In simpler terms, a gene is a unit of heredity that carries the information required to produce a particular trait or characteristic.
Genes exist in pairs within the chromosomes of living organisms. These chromosomes are made up of long strands of DNA that are coiled and condensed to fit inside the cell’s nucleus. Each gene consists of a specific sequence of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA. The sequence of nucleotides within a gene determines the type and order of amino acids that make up a protein.
Genes play a vital role in both inherited traits and the functioning of cells within an organism. They are responsible for traits such as eye color, hair color, and height, as well as the production of enzymes, structural proteins, and hormones necessary for normal body function.
Mutations in genes can lead to genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and Huntington’s disease. Conversely, understanding how genes function can also lead to the development of therapies for genetic disorders and the creation of useful products like genetically modified crops.
More Answers:
The Importance of DNA in Genetic Inheritance, Protein Synthesis, and Life ProcessesUnlocking the Secrets of the Genome: An Introduction to Genome Sequencing and Genome-wide Association Studies
Understanding Alleles: How Gene Variants Determine Traits in Individuals