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# What is DNA? - DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms. - Nearly every cell in a person's body has the same DNA. - Most DNA (99%) is located in the cell nucleus (where it is called nuclear DNA), but a small amount of DNA (1%) can also be...

# What is DNA? - DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms. - Nearly every cell in a person's body has the same DNA. - Most DNA (99%) is located in the cell nucleus (where it is called nuclear DNA), but a small amount of DNA (1%) can also be found in the mitochondria (where it is called mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA). ## What is DNA structure? - Nucleotides (deoxyribonucleotide) are the basic building blocks of nucleic acids (DNA) - DNA is a two-deoxyribonucleotide chain connected together by hydrogen bonds that is twisted into helix. - Basic structure of DNA is a sugar-phosphate backbone with 4 variable nitrogenous bases. ## Importance of DNA - DNA replication An essential step before cell division that is involved in various functions including reproduction, maintenance, and growth of cells, tissues, and body systems. - Genes Genes are coding for proteins, and provide instructions for cell life and its processes - DNA inheritance DNA packs in all the genetic information and passes it on to the next generation. A person inherits half of his or her genes from each of the parents. Mitochondrial DNA is only inherited from the mother. ## What is a DNA nucleotide? - A DNA nucleotide consists of: - Nitrogenous base(A,C,G,T) - Pentose sugar - One or more phosphate groups