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Asked by crystalb10 to Will, Amy on 8 Jun 2012.
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Will Reynolds answered on 8 Jun 2012:
Hi crystalb10. This is not my really my area of science but as far as I understand it, DNA is made up of a sequence of 4 amino acids: Adenine, Tymine, Cytosine, Guanine, in two chains that are wound together in a shape called a double helix. Everybody has a different comination of these 4 amino acids which is why we are all different, but we have have a similar DNA sequence to other people in our family. DNA makes up the structure of our bodies like skin, hair and internal organs. Thats about all I know, but Amy will probably be able to tell you more. Hope this helps!
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Amy Birch answered on 8 Jun 2012:
DNA works as a barcode or blueprint in our bodies. When anything needs to be made in our body (from little molecules to whole organs), certain ‘machines’ (called polymerases) can read different parts of the DNA and create the right building blocks for that structure to be made.
Every cell in your body has the same DNA in it, and this DNA is unique just to you. However, you got half of your DNA from each one of your parents and therefore you will have very similar DNA to them.
Comments
Sarah commented on :
Wee correction: DNA is made up of nucleic acids, and mostly stays wrapped up in shapes called chromosomes. Occasionally bits of DNA (called genes) get read by proteins called ribosomes, which use the information to put together new proteins out of amino acids. So amino acids make up proteins, and these are indeed what makes up the structure of our bodies.
Will commented on :
Thanks Sarah! Thats what happens when chemists try and answer biology questions!
Amy commented on :
Aaaah ribosomes! I knew I would get something wrong, d’oh!
Karen commented on :
DNA and the way the information in the DNA is used is what really facinates me. Even after working in the field for 10 years I still go WOW. Sarah’s given a lovely explaination so I’m not going to add anything else.