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Understanding DNA: Structure, Function, and Importance

Learn about the structure of DNA, its functions in storing genetic information and constructing biological molecules, and why it is important. Explore the double helix structure, nucleotides, base pairing, and antiparallel strands. Discover the significance of DNA sequencing and build your own DNA model.

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Understanding DNA: Structure, Function, and Importance

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  1. ?

  2. DNA!

  3. What is this DNA you speak of? • DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid - Found in nucleus of eukaryotic cells - Found in cytoplasm of protists

  4. Why should I care about DNA? • Two main functions 1.) Stores the genetic information of an organism.

  5. Why should I care about DNA? • Two main functions 2.) Contains instructions for how to construct important biological molecules. Example: Building new cells

  6. What is the structure of DNA? • Twisted ladder-like shape called a double helix Three main components 1.) Phosphate group 2.) 5 carbon sugar 3.) Nitrogenous base

  7. What is the structure of DNA? Three main components 1.) Phosphate group 2.) Five carbon sugar 3.) Nitrogenous base – Four types - Adenine - Guanine - Cytosine - Thymine DNA ‘backbone’ “Purines” “Pyrimidines”

  8. Nitrogenous Bases 1.) Purines - Adenine - Guanine 2.) Pyrimidines - Cytosine - Thymine The sequence of the nitrogenous bases in DNA determines the genetic code!

  9. Nitrogenous Bases • Base Pairing - Purines ALWAYS bond with pyrimidines! Chargaff’s Rules: - Adenine ALWAYS bonds with thymine A---T - Cytosine ALWAYS bonds with guanine C---G The amount of A = amount of T The amount of C = amount of G

  10. What is the structure of DNA?

  11. What is the structure of DNA? • A single strand of DNA has a 5’ and 3’ end. 3’ end: Terminates with an exposed –OH group on deoxyribose sugar 5’ end: Terminates with an exposed phosphate group

  12. What is the structure of DNA? • Antiparallel strands - Single strands of DNA run opposite to one another in the double-helix.

  13. What is the structure of DNA? • Antiparallel strands - Sequence of nucleotides is typically written in the 5’ to 3’ direction. 5’-ACTG-3’ Which is NOT the same as: 5’-GTCA-3’

  14. Can you build your own DNA model?

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