Here's a breakdown:

* DNA: A molecule that contains the genetic instructions for an organism. It's structured as a double helix, with each strand made up of a sequence of nucleotides.

* Genes: Specific segments of DNA that contain the code for a particular protein. Each gene provides instructions for building a specific protein.

* Proteins: Complex molecules that perform a wide variety of functions in the body, such as building and repairing tissues, transporting molecules, and fighting infections.

The process of going from DNA to protein is called gene expression:

1. Transcription: The DNA sequence of a gene is copied into a molecule of messenger RNA (mRNA).

2. Translation: The mRNA travels to ribosomes, where the genetic code is read and used to assemble amino acids into a protein.

So, in summary, genes within DNA hold the blueprint for making proteins.