* Chromosomes: These are long, thread-like structures found within the nucleus of every cell. They are made up of tightly packed DNA.
* DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid): This is the molecule that contains the genetic instructions for building and maintaining an organism. It's like a blueprint for the cell.
* Genes: These are segments of DNA that contain the code for a specific protein or RNA molecule. Proteins perform a vast array of functions in the cell, from building structures to catalyzing reactions.
How do genes control cellular activity?
1. Transcription: The DNA code within a gene is copied into a molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA).
2. Translation: The mRNA travels out of the nucleus to ribosomes, where the code is used to assemble amino acids into proteins.
3. Protein Function: The newly made proteins carry out a wide range of functions, including:
* Building and repairing cell structures
* Catalysing metabolic reactions
* Transporting molecules
* Receiving and transmitting signals
In essence, genes hold the instructions for everything a cell does, from growth and development to responding to its environment.
