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Deoxyribonucleic acid
(DNA) is a molecule found in the chromosomes that carries genetic information.
DNA is composed of four units (called bases) that are designated A, T, G,
and C. The sequence of the bases spell out instructions for making all of
the proteins needed by an organism. A gene is a section of DNA that holds
the instructions for a specific protein. A change in one or more of the
DNA bases making up a gene is called a mutation. Some mutations change the
protein instructions and can lead to particular health problems or disorders.
Each parent passes half of their chromosomes, and thus half of their DNA
instructions, onto their children. It is these instructions that cause certain
traits, such as eye or hair color, to be inherited. |
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