DNA

DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid is a molecule that is found in the cells of living things and carries coded instructions that are passed on to future generations. This genetic information determines how the plant or animal will grow and develop. It carries the ‘blueprint’ or instructions for the functions of each cell, these instructions being divided into units of information called genes. Most genes are coded instructions for making particular proteins. When a particular protein is required, the part of the DNA code for that protein is copied. DNA can replicate itself to carry genetic information from a parent to their offspring.