DNA: Prelude to the Symphony of Life
 

introduction

What is DNA? To give a simple answer, it is the molecule of life.  DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, determines our physical characteristics - what we look like, our ailments etc. Many also believe that DNA is partly responsible for our behaviour. DNA exists in every single organism, from the smallest virus to the largest mammal. DNA is passed on from generation to generation.

Why is this molecule so fascinating you ask? Well, besides the fact that it is present in like EVERY organism and not to mention the attractive curves on it's double-helical structure, it is the only known molecule that has ability to repli cate istelf.

DNA is like a biological blueprint which contains the instructions for proteins, an essential type of molecule of life.

This website examines the structure of DNA and DNA-related molecules that are involved, the processes of replication, and protein synthesis. Here you will find fun things to do like how to clone a sheep (well, not really), a glossary of te rms for quick and easy reference, and links to sites where you can find gather information to help you in your quest for knowledge.


1998 ThinkQuest Team#18617, George Ma, Justin Wong, Liam Stewart